UPDATE: A previous version of this story suggested that flour would help with a grease fire. However, this is not advised and highly dangerous.
TERRE HAUTE Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Honey Creek Fire Dept. gave a flaming example of what not to do when you are cooking your Thanksgiving turkey next week.
The turkey drop resulted in scorching hot oil flying out of the turkey’s pot. The detailed demonstration included several safety tips. Public information officer Josh Sittler says you must keep the pot at least 10 feet away from your house.
“Make sure it’s on a level ground for once that grease starts warming up and boiling,” Sittler said. “You also don’t want to overfill the pan, you want to make sure the turkey itself is actually thawed out completely before you go and put it in.”
Sittler warns that frying is not the only cooking method that can pose hazards. He says to be cautious and pay close attention when using an oven or smoker as well.
“Anything that has to do with heat or any type of cooking, you’re going to have some type of danger there,” Sittler said. “You want to make sure yourself that you’re prepared or that you do it in a safe enough manner not to have a fire.”
The department says it is important to not be careless and avoid cooking right outside your garage.
