Prevent a Turkey Fryer Fire

11/14/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know Thanksgiving Day is the peak day for home cooking fires?

Frying food increases the risk of accidental fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year.

When deep-frying a turkey keep safety in mind and follow these tips for safe cooking: 

• Choose the correct location and surface: Turkey fryers can easily tip over spilling hot oil across a large area. Use your turkey fryer only outdoors on a sturdy, level surface well away from things that can burn, and never in the garage. 
• Create a Safety Zone: Make sure to have a “3-foot kid- and pet-free zone” around your turkey fryer to protect against burn injuries. 
• Thaw the Turkey First: A partially frozen turkey will cause hot oil to splatter. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before you fry it. This can take days so prepare accordingly.
• Don’t use too much oil: Determine the correct amount of oil needed by first placing the turkey in the pot with water. An overfilled cooking pot will cause oil to spill over when the turkey is placed inside. 
• Monitor the Temperature: Turkey fryers can easily overheat and start a fire. Check the temperature often with a cooking thermometer so the oil won’t overheat. Never leave the cooking turkey unattended.
• Use Protective Gear: The pot, lid and handles of a turkey fryer can get dangerously hot and cause burn injuries. Use long cooking gloves that protect hands and arms when you handle these items. 

Fire damage is especially devastating for all involved. If the unthinkable happens, SERVPRO of Lake Travis / NW Austin has the water and fire damage training and expertise to help you through this tough time. Our professionals will always treat you with respect and empathy, and we’ll always treat your home and belongings with great care.

Sources: www.usfa.fema.gov, NFPA