Nov 21, 2007 5:45 am US/Pacific
LAFD Advises Of Dangers In Turkey Fryers
LOS ANGELES (CBS) ―
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A turkey in a deep-fryer bursts into flames.
AP
Cooking with deep-fat turkey fryers can be very dangerous, the Los Angeles Fire Department warned Wednesday.
"A longtime favorite in the southern United States, deep-fried turkey, has grown increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to celebrity chefs," said department spokesman Brian Humphrey in a statement.
"What television chefs won't mention, though, is the significant danger associated with deep-fat turkey fryers."
Humphrey's warning was supported by Underwriters Laboratories.
"We're worried by the increasing reports of fires related with turkey fryer use," said John Drengenberg, UL consumer affairs manager.
"Based on our test findings, the fryers used to produce those great- tasting birds are not worth the risks. And, as a result of these tests, UL has decided not to certify any turkey fryers with our trusted UL Mark," he said.
The fire department release said turkey fryers can be dangerous because:
- Units can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
- An overfilled cooking pot or partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is inserted.
- A small amount of cooking oil coming into contact with the burner can cause a large fire.
- Without thermostat controls, deep fryers have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.
- The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot, creating severe burn hazards.
The statement said that "if you absolutely must use a turkey fryer," these tips should be followed:
- Fryers should always be used outdoors, on a solid level surface a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
- Never use a fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage or enclosed space.
- Do not overfill the fryer.
- Never leave the fryer unattended because, without thermostat controls, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire.
- Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.
- Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts and wear long sleeves and safety goggles to protect from splatter.
- Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a fryer.
- Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers nearby.
- If a turkey fryer fire occurs, call 911 immediately.
(© 2009 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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