The Wichita Fire Department encourages residents to take precautions when preparing turkeys to ensure a safe Thanksgiving Day Holiday. Whether oven baked or deep fried, the dangers of a fire always exist. However, deep frying a turkey presents a special hazard that has caused numerous fires and debilitating burns. If residents are using a deep fryer to cook their turkey, they should practice the following safety tips:
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Use turkey fryers outside away from buildings and combustibles.
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Never use one in a garage or on a wooden deck.
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Place the fryer on a flat non-combustible surface and always in sight.
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Do not overfill the fryer to avoid oil spill-over.
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Never allow children or pets near the fryer when in use. Once the cooking process has been completed, the oil will remain dangerously hot for many hours.
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Thaw and dry the turkey completely. A wet turkey will cause the hot oil to splatter causing a fire or even an explosion.
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Use well insulated gloves or pot holders when handling the pot or lid handle.
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Check the oil temperature often.
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Turn off the fryer immediately if the oil begins to smoke.
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Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water on a grease fire.
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Call 911 immediately if a fire occurs.
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