How to prevent ‘Turkey Day’ fires

If it’s a close call, then you need either a bigger pot or a smaller turkey. And you can do it safely, but there is a reason why fire departments all over the country talk about this every year.

Smart also says it’s a good idea to keep some baking soda on hand. “It can start a flammable liquids fire, which are very risky and you can’t put it out with a water hose”. “Just get everyone out of the house and call 911”, Solobay said in the release. It’s an added measure to protect you and your family from fires in your home.

“Definitely do not put it in there wet or frozen because it causes not necessarily an explosion but a reaction with the hot oil and the water and it comes out the top usually on fire”, Chief Giampola.

“Turkey fryer fires can be explosive and result in serious burns”, said Glenn Gaines, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator for the United States Fire Administration (USFA). “Those pots and pans on the stove, turn those handles inward so they can’t easily be knocked off if you happen to walk by the stove”.

Stand by your stove and stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling or broiling. “If you leave a lid on it while it is still very hot they could come back the next morning and it still be lukewarm”.

Gregory said people are also prone to catching their houses on fire when they deep-fry a turkey without taking proper safety precautions.

First of all, never deep fry a frozen turkey.

That’s usually because someone is trying to fry a turkey. “Always use fryers outdoors, on a solid level surface away from buildings and flammable materials”.

Start with a clean oven and stovetop to reduce the risk of a grease fire.

Never leave children alone in a room with a lit candle.

If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn the gas supply OFF.

To prevent spillover, do not overfill the fryer. And make sure you’re turkey is fully thawed before putting it in the fryer. Water and ice on the turkey is going to interact with the oil and explode.

If a fire is manageable, use an all-purpose fire extinguisher.

If a fire does break out, most likely a grease fire, do not pour water on it that will only intensify the flames. Even after use, never allow children or pets near the turkey fryer.

Tyler’s fire department said they have already responded to a kitchen fire in the days leading up to Thanksgiving and hope that is not the sign of an active holiday.