Northwest Iowa — One of the most delicious ways to prepare a turkey for Thanksgiving is to fry it in a big turkey fryer. But unless you take a number of precautions, you could end up having to call 9-1-1 to have the fire department put out a house or garage fire.
We talked to Sibley Fire Chief Ken Huls, and he tells us about it.
He says probably the most common fire call they have in regard to turkey fryers is a garage fire, as people like to use the shelter of the garage, especially this time of year, to avoid the late-autumn wind. But he says that’s a recipe for disaster. He says the fryers can cause fires elsewhere too.
According to Huls, the best place to fry a turkey is in the middle of your driveway, if it’s flat enough. There’s nothing to burn there. He tells us one of the most dangerous moments of the process is putting the turkey in the hot oil or grease.
Huls says the cooks should also wear protection just in case.
Fire experts say when water hits hot oil or grease, it instantly turns to steam, taking the oil or grease with it. And with the flames, that instantly turns into a giant fireball.
He says don’t ever leave it unattended, and keep kids away. Follow the directions, and take your time.
Huls made his comments Monday on the KIWA Talk of the Town Program, which can be heard on weekday mornings at 8:30 on KIWA-FM 105.3. We also post a podcast of every Talk of The Town Program, and you can find those by clicking here.
