Deep Fryers: A Tasty But Dangerous Treat

Deep fryers are a convenient way to cook delicious fried foods, but they can also pose a fire hazard. Deep fryers cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries, and more than $15 million in property damage each year. In 2019, the London Fire Brigade attended 70 fires started by deep fat fryers. Understanding the causes of deep fryer fires and taking appropriate safety measures is crucial to prevent these dangerous incidents.

Deep fryers are a fire hazard

One of the primary causes of deep fryer fires is poor mechanical maintenance. Thermostat malfunction, for example, can cause cooking temperatures to rise, leading to oil smoke and, eventually, auto-ignition. New "high-temperature" fryers, which are designed to maintain higher temperatures, pose an even greater fire risk and require upgraded fire-extinguishing systems. In addition, grease buildup in the flue gas exhaust vent of a deep fryer can provide a fuel source for fires, especially if the buildup falls close to the burner elements.

To prevent deep fryer fires, it is important to take certain safety precautions. These include using a thermostat-controlled deep fryer and setting the thermostat to the appropriate temperature for the food being fried, never exceeding the recommended temperature. It is also crucial to monitor the oil level and ensure it stays between the minimum and maximum marks indicated on the fryer. Keeping flammable materials at least three feet away from the deep fryer is essential, as hot oil can easily ignite nearby combustible materials.

Regular cleaning of the deep fryer is vital to remove any grease or food residue that could accumulate and potentially ignite. It is also important to inspect the electrical components of the deep fryer and have a qualified electrician examine it if any frayed wires, damaged plugs, or loose connections are noticed. In the event of a deep fryer fire, it is crucial to act quickly by turning off the fryer, using a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires to smother the flames, and evacuating the area if necessary.

Causes of deep fryer fires

Deep fryers can start fires that cause death, injuries, and property damage. In fact, in 2019, the London Fire Brigade attended 70 fires started by deep fat fryers. There are several reasons why deep fryers can cause fires.

One of the primary reasons for ignition is poor mechanical maintenance. Deep fryers are susceptible to thermostat malfunction, which can cause cooking temperatures to rise. If the thermostat malfunctions, the oil can overheat to the point of combustion and cause a fire. At 218ºC (424ºF), oil starts to smoke, and smoke production will increase as the temperature rises. Auto-ignition occurs at approximately 273º to 420ºC (523º to 788ºF), depending on the oil type, impurities, and usage. New "high-temperature" fryers, which cook at higher temperatures, pose a more significant fire risk and may require upgraded fire-extinguishing systems.

Another issue is fryer chimney grease buildup. Over time, grease can accumulate and harden in the flue gas exhaust vent, which provides fuel for a fire, especially if the buildup falls close to the burner elements.

Inadequate clearance between the fryer and any open flame burners can also cause fires. NFPA 96 requires a clearance of at least 406 mm (16 inches) between fryers and any open flame burners to prevent the cooking oil from igniting.

Additionally, when deep-frying turkeys, oil may spill from the fryer onto the burner if the turkey is not fully thawed, causing a fire. Turkey fryers can also easily tip over, spilling hot oil, and they can cause burns as the handles and lids get extremely hot.

How to prevent deep fryer fires

Deep fryers can start house fires, so it's important to take precautions when using one. Here are some ways to prevent deep fryer fires:

• Use the right amount of oil: Never fill a pan more than one-third full of fat or oil. This will help prevent oil from spilling over and reduce the risk of fire.
• Dry food before frying: Make sure food is dry before placing it in hot oil. Oil and water are a dangerous combination, so removing excess moisture from food can help reduce the risk of fire and splattering.
• Monitor the oil temperature: If the oil starts to smoke, turn off the heat and let it cool down. Smoking oil indicates that it's too hot, which can increase the risk of fire.
• Use an electronic deep fryer: Electronic deep fryers have automatic temperature controls, making them safer to use than traditional pans.
• Keep the cooking area clean: Built-up fat and grease on the hob, cooker hood, and extractor fan can ignite and cause a fire. Regular cleaning can help reduce this risk.
• Maintain a safe distance from open flames: Ensure there is a sufficient gap between the fryer and any open flame burners. This will help prevent the oil from igniting.
• Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your deep fryer to identify any potential issues, such as thermostat malfunction or grease buildup, which could lead to a fire.
• Use a fry basket or metal utensils: When placing food into the hot oil, use a fry basket, metal skimmer, or tongs to avoid splashing and reduce the risk of oil splattering.

What to do if a deep fryer catches fire

Deep fat fryers are one of the most common causes of serious fires in commercial kitchens and restaurants, but they can also be a fire risk in the home. If a deep fat fryer does catch fire, there are several steps you can take to address the situation.

Firstly, never leave a deep fat fryer unattended. If a fire starts, you will only have a few minutes to put it out, so it is important to act quickly. If you discover the fire at an early stage, you can try to smother the flames by covering the fryer with a lid or a fire blanket. However, if the fire has already taken hold, this approach may be dangerous, as the oil can boil over and spread the fire.

Water should never be used to extinguish a deep fat fryer fire. This will create an explosive fireball. Instead, use a specialist fire extinguisher designed for grease and fat fires. These can be purchased at hardware shops and DIY stores. Ordinary fire extinguishers can be ineffective at tackling fires involving vegetable oils and may even cause the fire to spread.

To prevent deep fat fryer fires, there are several precautions you can take. Firstly, never fill a pan more than one-third full of fat or oil. Always ensure food is dry before placing it in hot oil, as oil and water are a dangerous combination. Keep your hob, cooker hood, and extractor fan clean, as built-up fat and grease can ignite.

Deep fryer fire safety tips

Deep fryers are a convenient appliance for cooking your favorite fried foods, but they can also pose a fire hazard. Understanding the causes of deep fryer fires and taking the appropriate safety measures is crucial to prevent dangerous incidents. Here are some essential safety tips to follow when using a deep fryer:

Preventing fires:

• Use a thermostat-controlled deep fryer: This will ensure the oil doesn't get too hot. The normal cooking temperature for vegetable oil is about 191ºC (375ºF), and auto-ignition occurs at approximately 273º to 420ºC (523º to 788ºF).
• Monitor the oil level: Keep the oil level between the minimum and maximum marks indicated on the fryer. A low oil level can cause the oil to overheat and ignite.
• Keep flammable materials away: Maintain a distance of at least three feet between flammable materials like paper towels, dishcloths, or curtains, and the deep fryer.
• Clean regularly: Accumulated grease and food residue can overheat and ignite. Clean the deep fryer thoroughly after each use and keep the hob, cooker hood, and extractor fan clean.
• Inspect electrical components: Regularly check for any frayed wires, damaged plugs, or loose connections. If you notice any issues, have the deep fryer inspected by a qualified electrician.
• Never overfill the pan: Never fill a pan more than one-third full of fat or oil. This helps prevent oil spills and reduces the risk of fire.
• Ensure food is dry before frying: Oil and water are a dangerous mix. Make sure food is completely dry before placing it in hot oil to prevent splashing and reduce the risk of oil spills.
• Avoid placing partially frozen food in the fryer: This can cause a spillover effect, leading to oil spills and an increased fire risk.
• Use safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves: Protect your eyes and skin from hot oil splashes by wearing safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves or an apron.

If a fire occurs:

• Turn off the fryer: Immediately unplug the deep fryer or turn off the gas supply to cut off the heat source.
• Do not use water: Never use water to put out a grease fire, as it can cause the oil to splatter and intensify the fire.
• Use a fire extinguisher: Smother the flames with a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires. Keep a fire extinguisher near the fryer at all times.
• Cover the fryer: If you don't have a fire extinguisher, carefully cover the fryer with a metal lid or baking sheet to cut off the oxygen supply and smother the flames.
• Evacuate the area: If the fire is too large or out of control, leave the area immediately and call the fire department.

Frequently asked questions