Happy Thanksgiving!
This happens to be our favorite holiday of the year: no work, food, family, no pressure of gifts and a built-in excuse, no, an obligation, to go for second or third helpings, desserts (plural), football and an authorized nap. Seriously, what could be better?
The only problem seems to be the dreaded Turkey Frying Fire!
The US Fire Administration reports over 4,000 Thanksgiving Day fires each year related to turkey frying accidents.
Turkey Frying Safety Tips:
1. Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors and a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
2. Do not use your turkey fryer in a garage or on a wooden deck.
3. Use your turkey fryer on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.
4. Never leave your fryer unattended, if you do not watch carefully, the oil can continue to heat until catching fire.
5. Do not let children or pets near the fryer even if it is not in use. The oil can remain dangerously hot hours after use.
6. Do not overfill the fryer.
7. Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts and wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from oil splatter.
8. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed! Oil and water do not mix, and water causes oil to spill over causing a fire or even an explosion hazard.
9. The National Turkey Federation (NTF) recommends thawing the turkey in the refrigerator approximately 24 hours for every five pounds in weight.
10. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
11. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire!