MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Make sure to stay safe this holiday season, especially when dealing with hot oil. Thanksgiving Day is the leading day for home cooking fires. Three times as many home cooking fires occur on Thanksgiving as any other day of the year. Misuse or accidents with hot oil can cause fire, very serious burns, and destruction of property.

State Fire Marshal Richard Miller, Meridian Township Fire Chief Fred Cowper, and the Meridian Township Fire Department have some tips to help you stay safe and enjoy the holidays.

-New oil-less fryers are now available and are safer than their oil counterparts.
-Never use turkey fryers indoors, in the garage, or on covered patios. Only use them outdoors and away from the house.
-Follow the manufacturer's user guide.
-Completely thaw the turkey and discard any wrappings, giblets, and the neck.
-Do not overfill the fryer. Before using the fryer try filling it with water and submerging the turkey to determine an appropriate fill level, mark this fill level for when you cook with oil.
-DO NOT leave the fryer unattended.
-Oils have different ignition temperatures and smoking points, only use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.
-Keep the propane tank and the fryer AT LEAST two feet apart.
-Keep children and pets away from the fryer.
-Oil may splatter, wear safety goggles and well-insulated oven mitts, for your protection.
-Water and oil DO NOT mix, and can possibly result in fire or explosion hazards, so make sure the turkey is dry when putting into the oil, and also be careful with marinades that may contain water.
-NEVER use water to extinguish a grease fire
-Turn OFF the gas supply if the oil begins to smoke.
-Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby ready to use in case of fire. USE IT if the fire is manageable.
-DON'T try to fight a fire yourself, immediately call 9-1-1 in emergencies.