While deep-frying turkeys has become increasingly popular, it could be a recipe for disaster.
Are you planning on deep-frying a turkey this year, or do you someone who is? You might want to rethink that decision, or at least pay attention to the following statistics and safety information.
Deep-fryer fires cause an average of five deaths, 60 injuries and more than $15 million in property damage each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which warns against deep-frying your turkey.
Frying a turkey has fire and safety officials alarmed because:
- As the turkey is placed in the hot oil, the oil may spill over from the fryer onto the burner, causing a fire.
- Turkey fryers are prone to tipping over.
- Most turkey fryers do not have an automatic thermostat control. Because of this, the oil can overheat to the point of combustion and cause a fire.
- Turkey fryers, including the lid and handles, get extremely hot and can easily cause burns.
If you decide to use a turkey fryer, be sure to follow these safety protocols from the FDNY Foundation:
- Make sure to use the fryer outdoors and use the fryer a safe distance (at least 10 feet) from flammable materials and other buildings.
- Do not use turkey fryers in a garage.
- Never let children near the fryer, even when it’s not in use.
- Never leave the fryer unattended.
- Do not overfill the fryer.
- Use safety goggles to protect your eyes and always use quality, heat-proof oven mitts when handling the fryer. Better yet, use FR protection!
- Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before putting it into the deep fryer.
- Keep a fire extinguisher near the fryer. Do not use water to put out a grease fire.
