Turkey know-how

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  With Thanksgiving right around the corner, many people are making preparations for the holiday feast that comes with the season. One thing people pay attention to is how to prepare a tradtional turkey in a safe manner.

"Thanksgiving is the largest day for fires involving home cooking equipment," said Master Sgt. Felicia Sanders, 931st Air Refueling Group Ground Safety manager.

Fried turkeys, a growing trend, can lead to dangerous oil fires if the proper precautions are not taken.

"When you fry a turkey make sure you read the instructions first, set it up outdoors away from anything flammable and [make sure] that you have a class-B fire extinguisher," said Sanders.

In order to avoid starting an oil fire, the turkey must be completely thawed out and slowly lowered into the oil to avoid overflow. The ideal temperature to cook the inside of the turkey to is 165 degrees Farenheit, said Sanders.

Steve Yavornitzki, 22nd Air Refueling Wing Protocol and Planning combat operations officer, has been frying turkeys since he first heard of the method more than 20 years ago.

He began using an electric fryer this year and encourages others to follow suit.

"There are a lot of benefits to this thing," said Yavornitzki. "You don't have to use as much oil, you get to stay inside and it cooks way quicker."

He also praised the electric fryer for its improved safety. When used properly, the chances of starting an oil fire are insignificant, said Yavornitzki.

The fryers themselves are not the only things in the kitchen that can be dangerous.

"Watch small children around the kitchen area," said Sanders. "Don't leave electrical cords to appliances hanging off the counter and keep everything clean and clear to be safe."

While cooking, whether for the entire family or just a few people, ensure that all proper precautions are taken for a safe holiday feast.