Setting even one stuntman on fire, even with modern protective gear, is highly dangerous. The stuntman is covered with fire-resistant clothes, a cooling gel and a mask. But once they’re set ablaze they have to hold their breath until the shot is complete and the flames have been entirely extinguished. The whole process takes roughly 30 seconds. That might not sound very long, but when you’re on fire, cannot see, are wearing heavy gear and flailing around pretending to suffer, it can seem like a very long time indeed.
And the most dangerous part is actually after you’re extinguished. At the moment, the active part of the stunt is over and the stuntman naturally wants to breathe again. But it’s always possible the fire could unexpectedly spark back up.
