Thinking of going a less traditional route this Thanksgiving and deep frying your bird instead of roasting it?

According to the Prince George’s County Fire Department (PGFD), the growing popularity of turkey fryers is cause for concern as they have the potential to cause fires and injuries if not used correctly. 

If you are deep frying your turkey this Thanksgiving, the PGFD asks that you follow these federal government recommended steps to maximize safety and minimize the risk of fire and injuries:

• Use turkey fryers outdoors a safe distance from buildings and any other combustible materials.
• Always follow manufacturers instructions on the set-up and use of the fryer.
• Inspect the propane tank and all associated tubes and connections to ensure there are no leaks of the flammable gas.
• Never use turkey fryers in a garage or on a wooden deck.
• Make sure 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; water causes oil to spill over causing a fire or even an explosion hazard.
• The National Turkey Federation 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.