Deep Frying Turkeys

More families are choosing to deep fry their turkeys instead of roasting. 

While some people rave about the taste of deep fried turkeys, The National Protection Association safety experts are concerned that backyard chefs may be sacrificing safety for good taste.    Also Underwriters Laboratories Inc., an independent, not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization that tests products for public safety has decided not to certify any turkey fryers with their UL Mark of approval.  Both agree that turkey fryers can present the following hazards:

• Many units easily tip over, spilling the hot oil within the cooking pot.
• If the cooking pot is overfilled with oil, the oil may spill out of the unit when the turkey is placed into the cooking pot. Oil may hit the burner/ flames causing a fire to engulf the entire 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 also have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.
• The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles get dangerously hot, poising severe burn hazards.

If you absolutely must use a turkey fryer, here are some tips for safer use:

• Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors 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 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.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and be careful with marinades.

Remember to take this risks and precautions into consideration, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.