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Turkey Fryer Safety Guidelines

By Steve Glick | 11/19/2015

TurkeyFryerSafety1[1]Many fire and safety experts will recommend NOT using hot oil turkey fryers. If you prefer the taste of fried turkey you should consider using one of the new types of “no-oil” fryers.

Here are some hazards associated with the use of turkey fryers:

  • Tipping over – Most units easily tip over, spilling the hot oil from the cooking pot.
  • Using too much oil – The oil may spill out of the unit when the turkey is placed into the pot. Oil may drain onto the unprotected burner or flames, causing a fire to engulf the entire unit and its surroundings.
  • Using a partially frozen turkey – Spillover can may result in a devastating fire.
  • Units without a thermostat: potential to overheat to the point of combustion.
  • Dangerously hot handles: – a severe burn hazard.
“If these concerns aren’t enough to discourage you from using a turkey fryer, consider the following tips to prevent a fire or disaster while cooking your turkey,” said Lt. Gauthier.
  • ALWAYS use a turkey fryer outdoors – away from anything combustible or flammable.
  • NEVER use a turkey fryer in a garage – under a shed or on a wooden deck.
  • Always place turkey fryers on a flat surface – to reduce the possibility of tipping over.
  • Never leave your fryer unattended.
  • Keep children and pets far away –  from the frying unit.
  • Do not overfill the pot. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Be sure your turkey is thoroughly thawed – before carefully placing it into the hot oil.
  • Use oven mitts – to prevent burning your hands.
  • Have a portable fire extinguisher handy – Know how to use it and dial 911 if there is a fire.
  • Use only during clear weather – If the weather is forecasting rain or snow, consider scrapping the entire frying option, as water and hot oil do not mix!

Continue to follow these tips until the oil has completely cooled. This may take several hours.

Fox-2 News story featuring turkey fryer safety tips from the Farmington Hills Fire Department –

 

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