Sounds like if Kirk's element had been 'submerged', there would not have been a fire!! Gotta remember to get ya to tell me that story next time I see ya buddy! I have heated VO exclusively w/water heater elements for over 3 years and not even a close call. VO does not conduct electricity and has to be over 600*F to 'catch fire'. Obviously common sense applies here, but its not 'inevitably dangerous'. Add even a little diesel, biodiesel or other 'light distillate' and all bets are off.