Deep fried turkey tips
DOWNTOWN JACKSON, Tenn. — If you‘re planning to use a turkey fryer this holiday, the Jackson Fire Department offers these safety tips: “¢
Look for the newer fryers with sealed lids to prevent oil spills. “¢
Keep the fryer in full view while the burner is on. “¢
Keep children and pets away from the cooking area. “¢
Place the fryer in an open area away from all walls, fences or other structures. “¢
Never use the fryer in, on or under a garage, carport, porch, deck or any other structure that can catch fire. “¢
Make sure the turkey is dry when placed in the hot oil. Slowly raise and lower the turkey to reduce hot-oil splatter and to avoid burns. “¢
Never cook in short sleeves, shorts or bare feet. Cover all bare skin when dunking or removing bird. “¢
Protect your eyes with goggles or glasses. “¢
Immediately turn off the fryer if the oil begins to overheat. “¢
Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and be careful with marinades. Oil and water don‘t mix and water can cause oil to spill over, creating a fire or even an explosion. “¢
Don‘t overfill fryer with oil. Turkey fryers can ignite in seconds after oil hits the burner. “¢
Keep a fire extinguisher appropriate for oil fires close at hand and be familiar with how to operate it. “¢
Do not use a hose in an attempt to douse a turkey fryer fire. “¢
If you do burn yourself, or someone else is burned, seek immediate medical attention. “¢
If you are going to drink alcohol, do it responsibly during dinner when you can relax safely.
