As the Thanksgiving holiday fast approaches, the West Grove Fire Company reminds everyone to think about cooking safety this week. In particular, use appropriate caution when deep frying the Thanksgiving turkey.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released their annual safety message on cooking safety for deep frying, with the theme "Cook the turkey, not the house," and their focus is correct. Each year, the Insurance Information Institute says there are approximately 1,000 house fires attributed to deep frying. And the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says 3 to 4 times as many fires happen on Thanksgiving from cooking that on a normal day.

Here are some safety tips to help make your deep frying experience safer this Thanksgiving:

-- Always fully thaw turkeys before deep frying.
-- Water and hot oil don't mix -- turkeys should be dry before cooking.
-- Pre-measure your turkey and oil before cooking -- Avoids using too much oil which can overflow the pot.
-- NEVER use deep fryers inside the house or garage, or on decks or back porches -- be well away from any structure to be safe.
-- Do not throw water on grease fires -- cover the fire if possible and use fire extinguishers. And call 911 to summon help in all emergency situations as quickly as possible so help can be on the way.

Deep frying turkeys can easily be accomplished safely by following these safety tips, and make your holiday meals fun and delicious. Watch these videos and consult the CPSC and NFPA websites for more information. Everyone at the West Grove Fire Company wishes you and yours a safe and happy holiday season.