Turkey fryer safety tips

The Fire Department wants to remind people to practice safety when using turkey fryers to prepare the big family meal.

"As we prepare ourselves for the up-and-coming Thanksgiving holiday, now is a great time to remind the communities we serve and ourselves about the inherent dangers of a very popular way we prepare Thanksgiving dinner," says Fire Safety Education Officer Sgt. Jeremy Webb.

Below is a list of tips to help families stay safe:

• Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages at least 10 feet away from your home and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Ice or water that mixes into the hot oil can cause flare-ups.
• Watch the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
• Place the fryer on a level surface and avoid moving it once it is in use.
• Leave at least 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overfilling. Oil can ignite when it makes contact with the burner.
• Never leave fryer unattended.
• Purchase a fryer with temperature controls and watch the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil that is heated beyond its smoke point can catch fire. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Wear goggles to shield your eyes, use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms and keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by.
• Always keep children and pets away from the fryer.