Fire Department Issues Turkey Fryer Safety Tips

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Firefighters usually see a surge in home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, according to the National Fire Protection Association. The risk of these fires is increased when you're using a fryer to cook your bird. The Downers Grove Fire Department has provided tips for residents to stay safe while using turkey fryers this Thanksgiving weekend.

• Turkey fryers can tip and spill hot oil, so keep fryers outdoors on flat surfaces that are not close to anything flammable.
• Create a 3-foot perimeter around your turkey fryer to prevent children and animals from burns.
• Avoid overfilling the turkey fryer with oil as this can cause hot oil to displace and spill once.
• Completely dethaw the frozen bird to prevent oil from splattering when you start cooking.
• Monitor the fryer's temperature to prevent overheating.
• Use long cooking gloves when touching the lid, handles, and pot of your turkey fryer.

If you experience anything out of the ordinary, don't hesitate to call 911.

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