SAFETY TIPS OFFERED FOR FRYING TURKEYS

By Ray King/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

While a traditional baked or roasted turkey will be the fare for many Pine Bluff residents Thursday, others will choose to cook their bird in a deep fryer, and fire officials say cooks may be sacrificing safety for good taste.

“We’ve had several reports of fires related to frying turkeys,” said Shauwn D. Howell, Pine Bluff Fire Department public information officer. “If people are going to fry their turkeys, we want them to exercise extra caution.”

According to Howell, many deep fryers tip over easily, spilling the hot oil, and if the cooking pot is too full of oil, that oil could spill when the turkey is placed in the pot.

“Partially frozen turkeys placed in the fryer can also cause a spill over effect,” Howell said. “This can result in an extensive fire.”

In addition, since deep fryers have no thermostat controls, they have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion, Howell said, adding that the sides of the cooking pot, lid and handles pose severe burn hazards.

If a person is determined to have fried turkey, Howell offered some suggestions on doing it safely.

“Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors, a safe distance from buildings and other material that can burn,” he said. “Never use fryers on wooden decks or in garages, and make sure they’re on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.”

He also urged parents to please ensure that children and pets don’t get near the fryer when it’s in use.

“The oil inside the cooking pot can remain dangerously hot, hours after use,” Howell said.

Also make sure the turkey is completely thawed, because oil and water don’t mix and water can cause the oil to spill over, causing a fire or even an explosion hazard, he said.

Howell also recommended keeping a fire extinguisher nearby, but never try to put out a grease fire with water.

“Use your best judgment if a fire does break out,” Howell said.

“If you believe it is manageable, use a fire extinguisher. If it increases, call 911 for help.”

The Pine Bluff Fire Department also celebrated its 115th birthday Wednesday, having become a paid, professional department by city ordinance Nov. 21, 1892.