Spokane Fire Department warns about significant hazards when using hot oil turkey fryers
Michele Anderson, Public Safety Communications Manager
Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 11:30 a.m.
The Spokane Fire Department (SFD) wants residents to be aware of the number of safety risks associated with frying their Thanksgiving turkeys and to use extreme caution in order to avoid a holiday tragedy.
“If you are frying a turkey, a few safety tips should be followed as you prepare your meal,” says Spokane Fire Marshal Michael Miller. “It’s also important to remember propane-fired units are designed for outdoor use only.”
Safety Tips:
- Turkeys should be thoroughly defrosted before cooking. Placing a frozen or partial frozen bird in boiling oil can cause a grease flash over.
- Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors a safe distance from buildings and any other material that can burn.
- Never use turkey fryers on wooden decks or in garages.
- Make sure the fryers are used on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.
- Never leave the fryer unattended. Most units do not have thermostat controls. If you don't watch the fryer carefully, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire.
- Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use. Even after use, never allow children or pets near the turkey fryer. The oil inside the cooking pot can remain dangerously hot, hours after use.
- To avoid oil spillover, do not overfill the fryer.
- Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching pot or lid handles. If possible, wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
- Make sure to follow the operating and safety instructions that came with fryer.
The Spokane Fire Department would like to wish everyone a safe holiday season. For more information on holiday fire safety tips contact SFD’s Fire Prevention Bureau at 509-625-7058.
