Turkey fryers are one of the ways to get turkey cooked fast, but can result in dangerous fires when not careful. Some tips from UL (Underwriters Laboratories) about Turkey Fryer safety.
Why turkey fryers can be dangerous:
* Many units easily tip over, spilling very hot oil within the cooking pot.
* If the cooking fryer is overfilled with oil, the oil may spill out of the unit when the turkey is placed in. Oil may hit the burner/flames causing a fire to engulf the entier unit.
* Partially frozen turkeys placed into the fryer can cause a spillover effect. This too may result in an extensive fire.
* With no thermostat controls, the units have potential to overheat the oil at the point of a combustion.
* The sides of the cooking pot, lid and handles can get dangerously hot, posing servere burn hazards.
If you absolutely have to use the turkey fryer, here are some important tips for safer use:
* Turkey fryers should ALWAYS be used outdoors within a safe distance from buildings or any other material the can burn.
* Never use turkey fryers on wooden decks or in garages.
* Make sure the fryer is on a leved surface to prevent spilling.
* Never leave the fryer unattended. Most fryers do not have a thermostat control and if you don’t watch the fryer carefully it will continue to heat until it catches fire.
* NEVER let childern or pets near the fryer when in use or after use. The oil inside can remain dangerously hot hours after use, and can cause servere burns.
* To avoid oil spills, do not overfill the fryer.
* Always use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching the pot or lid. If possible, use safety goggles to protect your eyes from oil splatter.
* Make sure the turkey is thawed and be careful with marinades. Oil and water don’t mix, and water the oil to spill over, causing a fire or an explosion hazard.
* The National Turkey Federation recommands refrigerator thawing and to allow approximately 24 hours for every five pounds of bird that is thawed in the refrigerator.
* Keep an all-propose fire extinguisher nearby. NEVER use water to extinguish a grease fire. Remember to use your best judgement when attempting to fight a fire. If the fire is manageable, use an all-propose fire extinguisher. If the fire is impossible to fight, call 9-1-1 right away.
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fire safety, turkey fryer saftey, turkey safety