Turkey Fryer Safety Stressed by American Medical Response

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November 2011

Thanksgiving isn't a holiday most people associate with burn injuries, apart from minor burns suffered while wrestling a just-out-of-the-oven turkey onto a carving platter. But the latest turkey-cooking craze of deep-frying turkeys in pots of hot oil can increase fire and burn hazards.

American Medical Response (AMR) is dedicated to injury prevention and suggests the following safety tips from the Burn Institute (www.burninstitute.org) to help you and your loved ones prevent serious injuries if you use a turkey fryer during the holidays.

• NEVER leave turkey fryers unattended.
  
• ALWAYS use turkey fryers outdoors.
  
• KEEP fryers away from combustible materials.
  
• ALWAYS place fryers on a flat, stable surface.
  
• NEVER overfill the fryer.
  
• ALWAYS follow the fryer manufacturer's recommendations for use.
  
• NEVER heat oil above the recommended temperature.
  
• ALWAYS use a thermometer to gauge food temperature.
  
• NEVER move the fryer once it is in operation.
  
• ALWAYS keep children away from the fryer.
  
• ALWAYS thaw your turkey completely before placing it in the fryer.
  
• ALWAYS make sure the oil is completely cooled before removing it from the fryer.
  
• ALWAYS keep a fire extinguisher with you when using a turkey fryer.
  
• In case of fire, immediately call 9-1-1. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE WITH WATER.

Author:American Medical Response (AMR) Press Release