Outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that use hot oil can be very dangerous if they are not used properly. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) both discourage the use of these fryers. The NFPA states that "the use of turkey fryers can lead to devastating burns, other injuries and the destruction of property."

Please use extreme caution if you decide to use this type of turkey fryer this holiday season.

Turkey Fryer Hazards

  • Many units easily tip over, spilling the hot oil from the cooking pot.
  • If the cooking pot is overfilled with oil, the oil may spill out of the unit when the turkey is placed into the cooking pot. Oil may hit the burner or flames, causing a fire to engulf the entire unit.
  • Partially frozen turkeys placed into the fryer can cause a spillover effect. This too may result in an extensive fire.
  • With no thermostat controls, the units also have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.
  • The lid and handles on the sides of the cooking pot get dangerously hot, posing severe burn hazards.
-- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

Important Safety Information

  • Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors a safe distance from buildings and any other flammable materials.
  • Never use turkey fryers in a garage or on a wooden deck.
  • Make sure the fryers are used on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping.
  • Never leave the fryer unattended. Most units do not have thermostat controls. If you do not watch the fryer carefully, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire.
  • Never let children or pets near the fryer even if it is not in use. The oil inside the cooking pot can remain dangerously hot hours after use.
  • To avoid oil spillover, do not overfill the fryer.
  • Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching pot or lid handles. If possible, wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from oil splatter.
  • Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and be careful with marinades. Oil and water do not mix, and water causes oil to spill over causing a fire or even an explosion hazard.
  • The National Turkey Federation (NTF) recommends thawing the turkey in the refrigerator approximately 24 hours for every five pounds in weight.
  • Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire. If the fire is manageable, use your all-purpose fire extinguisher. If the fire increases, immediately call the fire department for help
-- Underwriters Laboratories (UL)

Christmas Tree Safety

SAFETY & YOUR TREE
  • Natural trees should be cut at a 45 degree angle at the base and placed in water.
  • Place tree away from sources of heat.
  • Use only non-flammable decorations.
  • Use only lighting evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
  • Inspect lights for frayed wire or other defects before use.
  • Do not leave lights on unattended.
  • Keep natural tree stands filled with water at all times.
  • When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.

Facts About Home Holiday Fires

  • One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
  • Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious. On average, one of every 40 reported home structure Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 142 total reported home structure fires.
  • A heat source too close to the tree causes roughly one in every six of Christmas tree fires.
  • More than half (56 percent) of home candle fires occur when something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
  • December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11 percent of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4 percent the rest of the year.
Source: National Fire Protection Association