MUSCATINE, Iowa — As Thanksgiving approaches, the Muscatine Fire Department is encouraging residents to use caution when preparing holiday meals—especially when using turkey fryers. While deep-fried turkeys have become a favorite seasonal tradition, they present serious fire and burn hazards when not handled properly.
“Turkey fryers can reach extremely high temperatures and can easily tip, spill, or ignite if used incorrectly,” said Battalion Chief Gary Ronzheimer. “We want our community to enjoy the holiday safely, without preventable injuries or fires.”
National fire data shows that turkey fryers are responsible for thousands of structure fires, burn injuries, and emergency room visits each year. Many accidents occur outdoors or near structures where hot oil can ignite combustible materials in seconds.
To help keep the community safe, the Muscatine Fire Department offers the following safety tips:
- Use fryers outdoors only and place them on a flat, stable surface at least 10 feet from homes, garages, fences, or decks.
- Thaw and dry the turkey completely before lowering it into the fryer. Water or ice interacting with hot oil can cause dangerous flare-ups.
- Turn off the burner when lowering the turkey into the oil to reduce the risk of splashing or overflow.
- Monitor oil temperature closely—overheated oil can ignite.
- Never leave the fryer unattended.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the cooking area.
- Have a Class K or ABC fire extinguisher on hand. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
The department also notes that oil-less infrared turkey fryers are a safer alternative, eliminating the dangers associated with large quantities of hot oil.
“If a fire does occur, do not attempt to move the fryer,” Ronzheimer added. “Get to a safe location and call 9-1-1 immediately.”
The Muscatine Fire Department wishes all residents a safe, enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday. For additional seasonal safety information and fire prevention resources, visit the U.S. Fire Administration at COOKING FIRE SAFETY.
About the Muscatine Fire Department
The Muscatine Fire Department provides fire and emergency medical services, rescue response, and prevention activities for the City of Muscatine, as well as providing select services for EMS to areas of Muscatine County as well as providing HAZMAT response for five counties and 100,000+ population. Call volume was over 5,500 calls in 2024. The Muscatine Fire Department began as a volunteer fire company on January 7, 1875, and was established as a full-time department in January 1916.