How to Avoid an Exploding Turkey When Using a Deep Fryer

If you’re like 88 percent of the rest of the country you’re probably going to eat some turkey this Thanksgiving. While most of us will enjoy an oven-roasted turkey, some hardcore Thanksgiving aficionados have been deep-frying their birds in turkey fryers despite their inherent dangers.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than 2,000 residential fires are reported on Thanksgiving. A number of these fires are caused by botched turkey fryer mishaps.

WATCH THE UL VIDEO of a turkey fryer bursting into flames.

UL (Underwriters Laboratories), a global product safety organization, discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled fryers that immerse whole turkeys into hot oil. UL still won’t certify turkey fryers as they are designed. And after watching the accompanying UL video of a turkey fryer demonstration, you’ll understand why you need to keep your kids and dog away from the fryer while in use.

Still, UL understands that for some consumers the lure of fire, hot oil, metal and turkey is unavoidable. In that spirit, UL offers some safety tips that you can pass along to your husband, boyfriend or brother-in-law to keep them from singing the hair off their arms or burning the garage down.

UL Safety Tips

• Use extreme caution when using turkey fryers!
• Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors and at a safe distance from buildings and any other flammable materials.
• Avoid using turkey fryers on wooden decks. Never use a turkey fryer in garages, carports or any overhanging structure
• Make sure the fryers are used on a flat, level surface to reduce accidental tipping.
• Because unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires, always monitor the temperature as the turkey cooks.  If your turkey fryer does not have thermostat controls, purchase a separate thermometer to monitor the temperature.  
• Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use. After use, continue to exercise extreme caution as the oil inside the cooking pot can remain dangerously hot for hours.
• To avoid oil spillover, do not overfill the fryer.  Only use enough oil to cover the turkey.  Newer turkey fryers have lines to identify the fill level.
• 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 can cause oil to spill over, starting a fire or even an explosion hazard.
• 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.
• For more information to make your holidays safe this year, visit www.SafetyAtHome.com.

Source: Underwriters Laboratories