be playing with fire

To be doing something that risks causing one harm, damage, or misfortune; to be doing something dangerous. They're playing with fire if they think they can get away with dodging these corporate taxes. Jen swears she's being safe when she experiments with drugs, but I think she's playing with fire. Do what you want, but I think you're playing with fire to keep sneaking out like this. Mom and Dad will find out eventually!

be playing with fire

COMMON If you are playing with fire, you are doing something that has big risks and is likely to cause problems. Rebel MPs are playing with fire and endangering the party's re-election. Schulte warned industrial leaders that those who even think about mass layoffs are playing with fire.