A Thanksgiving safety message from the Tellico Village Fire Department

This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to roast your turkey or use an oil-free turkey cooker. Turkey fryers (propane or electric) that use hot oil can tip over, spill, or catch fire. A wet or partially frozen turkey can send hot oil splashing out of the pot.

If you choose to deep-fry your turkey in hot oil, follow your fryer’s manufacturer instructions and take these precautions.

• Set up outdoors. Place the fryer on a sturdy, level surface at least 10 feet from your home and away from other structures. Keep it off decks and porches and clear of roof overhangs.

• Thaw and dry the turkey completely. Use the amount of oil specified by the manufacturer. Too much oil can overflow when you lower the turkey into the pot.

• Stay with the fryer. Monitor the oil temperature throughout cooking. Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away while cooking and as the oil cools. Leave the fryer in place until it has cooled.

If the fryer catches fire, get everyone away and call 911 from a safe location. Never pour water on burning oil.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving from the Tellico Village Fire Department!