Peterson AFB Fire & Emergency Services urge extreme caution when using turkey fryers Published Nov. 12, 2008 By Burke Ferrin Assistant Fire Chief for Fire Prevention PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Peterson's Fire & Emergency Services and the National Fire Protection Association are urging consumers to use extreme caution with turkey fryers when preparing holiday meals because of the dangers frequently associated with the devices. Tests have shown that the fryers have a high risk of tipping over, overheating, or spilling hot oil, which can lead to fires, burns, or other injuries. The cooking method, which has become increasingly popular in recent years, requires placing the turkey in three gallons or more of oil, which is heated by propane. Some people opt for frying because they believe it delivers better taste and cuts down on cooking time. But the units have come under scrutiny recently, as Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., an independent product safety-testing organization, has decided not to certify, with their UL mark, any turkey fryer. The UL mark on your appliances is the safety assurance that the item has been rigorously tested in a laboratory under extremely harsh conditions. Some of our concerns about turkey fryers: - When the turkey is placed in the hot oil, oil may spill onto the burner, creating a fire. - The units can easily tip over, spilling hot, scalding oil onto anyone or anything nearby. - Most units do not have automatic thermostat controls, so oil may heat until it catches fire. - The sides, lids, and handles get extremely hot and may cause burns. Peterson Fire & Emergency Services urges the use of cooking equipment that has been tested and approved by a recognized testing facility, such as UL or Factory Mutual (FM) Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the primary cause of these fires. If you absolutely must use a turkey fryer, here are some tips for safer use: - Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors at 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 from oil splatter. - Make sure the turkey is completely thawed, and be careful with marinades. Oil and water don't mix, and water causes oil to spill over, causing a fire or even an explosion hazard. - The National Turkey Federation recommends refrigerator-thawing of turkeys and to allow approximately 24 hours for every five pounds of bird thawed in the refrigerator. - Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire. Remember to use your best judgment when attempting to fight a fire. If the fire is manageable, use an all-purpose fire extinguisher. If the fire increases, immediately call 9-1-1 for help.