Officials with North Bay Fire and Emergency Services say they’ve seen an increase in fires related to unsafe cooking practices in 2019.

Deputy Chief Greg Saunders says almost all of the incidents, including one yesterday that destroyed a home on Widdifield Station Road, involved cooking oil.

He says they’d prefer residents choose safer cooking options, but does offer up safe cooking practices if choosing to cook a turkey in oil.
– Never use a deep fryer inside. Always cook outside, at least ten feet from any houses or other structures. The frying mechanism should be placed on a level surface in an open area away from any water sources.
– The size of the fry-pot and the amount of the oil used should be determined prior to cooking. These will depend on the size of the bird being fried.
– The fryer should be off and completely dry when the oil is poured inside.
– The turkey needs to be completely thawed before submersion. Oil and water do not mix, and any leftover ice or slush can result in a dangerous explosion of hot oil. If the oil spills over onto the burner, the entire mixture can ignite.
– Once the oil is heated, the turkey should be slowly lowered into the pot. Dropping it or inserting it too quickly can result in spillage and ignition of the oil.
– It is a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher handy. Water should never be used in the event of a fire due to the adverse reaction it will have with the oil.
– Once the cooking is complete, the fryer should be given enough time to cool completely before being emptied or cleaned. This takes approximately two hours.[3]

Saunders says a father and his 18 month old daughter were able to safely evacuate from yesterday’s house fire.

The homeowner suffered smoke inhalation and was treated on the scene.

The fire was completely extinguished about five hours after crews first arrived on the scene at 5:21 pm.

They had to shuttle water to the scene because there are no hydrants in that area of the city.

 

(File photo by station staff)

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