Safe cooking tips for Thanksgiving

On average, there are twice as many house fires reported on Thanksgiving than any other day of the year, authorities said.

In most cases, patterns of fire incidence on Thanksgiving Day differ substantially from the national fire profile.

The fire department said unsafe cooking practices can lead to devastating burns and other injuries, as well as damage to property.

Be attentive in the kitchen.

If you are cooking your bird in a turkey fryer this year, do it outside only and away from your home. “It’s critical to not get distracted and to always stand next to what you’re cooking”.

· If you have a fire in your microwave, turn it off immediately and keep the door closed.

Call 911 or the local emergency number after you leave. Zackary said the common reaction someone might have to a cooking fire may put them in greater danger.

The Springfield Fire Department also recommends keeping a fire extinguisher nearby to put out small and contained fires. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner.

Cover the deep fryer with the matching lid while wearing an oven mitt.

If you’re using a disposable aluminum pan, double up and use two pans to avoid a puncture, that could cause turkey juices to drip and cause an oven fire.

William Shatner discusses and re-enacts his actual Thanksgiving Day turkey fryer mishap.

Never let children or pet near the fryer before or after use.

NFPA urges those who prefer fried turkey to seek out the dish from professional establishments, such as grocery stores, specialty food retailers, and restaurants or consider a new type of “oil-less” turkey fryer. The stove will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.

· Make your cooking area safe.

Never leave fryers unattended while cooking.

What increases the risk of the turkey catching fire is when people fry the turkey for too long. “Hot oil is extremely unsafe, so never use turkey fryers on a wooden deck or in your garage”. They should not be overfilled with oil.

Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and be careful with marinades.