Dozens in Dallas treated for burns after walking across hot coals

DALLAS - Dozens of people were treated at a motivational event in Downtown Dallas last night when they walked across hot coals.

Internationally known speaker Tony Robbins is holding a four-day event at the Dallas Convention Center. Thursday night’s fire walk is supposed to show participants “you can do anything if you put your mind to it.”

“This guy completely transformed the way I view and the way I think. For me it’s like a yearly routine, physical that you’d go to a doctor for. I get him to get me focused and push myself,” said Jacqueline Luzenberg, a fire walk participant.

“The fire walk often becomes the focal point for a lot of people because you know it is something a lot of people don’t believe is possible to do. If you had been in the room, Tony often says this isn’t about fire-walking. This is about facing your fears and moving forward,” said Tad Schinke, Robbins’ head trainer.

But walking on the hot coals was too much for some. Ambulances and fire trucks were sent to treat as many as 40 people who had burns to their feet and legs. Most injuries were minor, but five people were taken to Parkland hospital.

One firewalker tweeted a photo of her blister, saying, "What happens when you do the Tony Robbins firewalk? You burn your feet *expletive* #neveragain."

In a statement, Robbins Research said it is not uncommon for less than 1 percent of participants to experience “hot spots,” which was the case Thursday night. Medically trained staff are always at the events “to officer quick and easy remedies for any soreness.”

The company claims someone not familiar with the event called 911 erroneously and reported hundreds of people needed medical attention, which is why so many ambulances showed up.

“We are pleased to have completed another successful fire walk for 7,000 guests and look forward to the remainder of an outstanding event,” Robbins’ company said.

Angelly Quiran, 12, was one of the thousands who completed the walk without injury. She says those who got hurt weren't focused.

"I don't think they had the right mindset yet. They didn't really understand what Tony was teaching. If they try it again, maybe they can get it this time," Quiran.

A Dallas Fire and Rescue spokesperson said the seminar did have a permit for the fire and had fire prevention officers and paramedics standing by. That spokesperson also said each person treated will be billed individually.