A deep fryer can cause a serious fire or violently eject hot oil if it is overheated, overfilled or used incorrectly. Water entering hot oil can turn rapidly to steam and throw oil out of the container. These hazards are not all the same as an appliance exploding, but they can cause severe burns.
Choose the Right Location
Use the location specified for the appliance. An indoor electric fryer should not be moved to a balcony or garden simply because outdoors sounds safer. Outdoor fuel-fired fryers have different placement rules and must not be used inside a home or garage. The Presto electric fryer manual and National Park Service turkey-fryer guidance illustrate these different requirements.
Keep the appliance stable and away from children, pets and combustible materials. Use the supplied power cord and connection instructions for an electric model.
Follow the Fill Marks, Not a Universal Fraction
For a purpose-built electric fryer, use its minimum and maximum oil markings or the exact quantity in its manual. A one-third-full rule for a cooking pan is not a substitute for those instructions. Leave room for the approved food load, and never run a fryer with insufficient oil. Follow your exact manual; the Presto instructions give oil and food limits for that model.
Handle Frozen Food According to Its Instructions
Water and excess ice can cause dangerous splashing. Nevertheless, some packaged foods are designed to be fried from frozen, and some fryer manuals include instructions for them. Follow both the food package and appliance directions instead of thawing every frozen food automatically.
Do not put a frozen or partly frozen whole turkey into a hot-oil turkey fryer. Keep food loads and preparation within the limits specified for the equipment. The National Park Service warns about frozen turkey and hot oil.
Control the Heat and Stay Nearby
Use the temperature controls and any thermometer the manufacturer specifies. Bubbles around a wooden spoon are not a reliable temperature measurement. Never leave frying unattended, and switch the appliance off when finished.
If oil smokes, stop heating it safely. If a fire starts, do not carry the fryer or pour water into it. Get everyone to safety and call the emergency service. Let oil cool before moving, draining or cleaning the appliance. The fire service’s kitchen safety advice explains why you should not move a burning pan or use water.
Related Reading
- Can You Use a Blender in Place of a Mixer?
- Is it Possible for a Microwave Oven to Blow Up?
- How Long Can You Leave a Rice Cooker Working Unattended?
- Do Microwave Ovens Need Ventilation? Here’s What We Found
- Prevention and Removal of Rust in Microwave Ovens
- How Do Deep Fryers Work? (Types, Oils, And Proper Use)
- What Oil Is Best For Deep Fryers? + How To Choose Oils For Deep Frying?
- Are There Risks Associated with Operating a Rice Cooker that Could Result in an Explosion or Fire?
- Can A Rice Cooker Go In Dishwasher? [Dishwasher-Safe Parts]
