| With Thanksgiving around the corner, the Nancy Run Fire Company would like to remind you about cooking safely. Turkey fryers are becoming more and more popular, but they continue to be a dangerous method of cooking your Thanksgiving Day bird. On average, over 160,000 cooking fires occur in residential buildings within the United States each year. This number generally peaks on Thanksgiving Day. Of those 160,000 cooking fires, approximately 51% of those result from oil, fat and grease.
If you still choose to fry your turkey this year, here are some safety tips:
-Purchase a factory-built unit, do not use homemade fryers.
-Make sure you use the fryer outside in a well-ventilated area.
-Make sure the fryer is a safe distance from buildings and combustible materials.
-Do not use the fryer on a deck, in the garage, or near other combustible surfaces.
-Ensure that the unit is on a flat, dry surface.
-Never leave the fryer unattended.
-Keep all pets and children away from the fryer before, during and after use.
-Do not overfill the fryer with oil.
-Use leather gloves or pot holders when touching the unit or lid.
-Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before placing it into hot oil.
-Place the turkey in the oil slowly; this may take up to a minute depending on size.
-Keep a multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher nearby in case of fire.
-Never use water to extinguish a turkey fryer fire; oil and water do not mix.
-Even after use, do not allow children or pets near the fryer; it can remain hot for several hours.
-If a fire occurs, clear the area and call 911.
Below you will find some links for more cooking safety tips. |
