Turkey Fryer Safety: Understanding the Hazards & Staying Safe

Oct 19, 2013

Quick Answer

Oil-filled turkey fryers are considered very hazardous due to the high oil temperatures, which can reach 350°F, and the risk of combustible vapors igniting or hot oil splashing. Product Safety Consulting, Inc. advises against their use, noting that both UL and the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) are against these devices and will not certify them. Instead, the company recommends using oil-less fryers as a safer alternative for cooking turkeys.

Gobble, Gobble……..of course now is the time to be thinking about those very hazardous oil filled Turkey fryers.  A couple of thoughts before you decide to use one….

 

  • Don’t use it.  Find an oil-less fryer!!  They’re out there.
  • UL and the NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) are totally against them.  Neither company will Certify them.  Here’s their websites on the matter –

–  http://www.ul.com/global/eng/pages/offerings/perspectives/consumer/productsafety/turkeys/

–  http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/causes/cooking/turkey-fryers

 

  • If you must use them –
    • Outdoors only
    • Supervised only
    • The turkey needs to be completely thawed all the way through
    • The oil gets to 350°F.  That’ really hot!!!  Understand the vapors coming out – not only the top, but also may leak through the sides is combustible and can ignite with a spark.
    • Rain or other cold water hitting the fryer can get it to splash hot oil and/or ignite
    • Most of the fryers on the market are prone to tip over.  Be sure the area is clear of any combustibles in case that hot oil spills out.
    • Keep kids away!!!!
    • Always turn it off and don’t leave the area until the fryer is cooled down to room temperature.
    • See item number 1 above