Are you planning on frying your turkey this Thanksgiving? If you are – please follow these safety tips!
• Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors, a safe distance (10 ft) from buildings or anything else that can burn. Never use on a wooden deck, on a porch or in garages.
• Make sure there is at least 2 feet of space between the liquid propane tank and fryer burner.
• Keeping fryers on a flat surface will help prevent accidental tipping.
• Never leave a fryer unattended. Most units do not have thermostat controls and the oil could end up heating until it catches fire.
• Never let children or pets come near the fryer when it is in use. Even hours after use, the oil can remain dangerously hot.
• Use potholders or oven mitts when touching pot or lid handles.
• Completely thaw and dry your turkey before cooking. Partially frozen and /or wet turkeys can cause hot oil splatter when added to the oil.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby and never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
• Check the oil temperature frequently. Turn the gas supply off if oil begins to smoke.
• If you have a fire and the fire is manageable, use an all-purpose fire extinguisher. However, if the fire increases, immediately call 911 for help.
Happy Thanksgiving, happy cooking.
By: Cinda Seamon – Fire & Life Safety Educator, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue
