The average number of reported residential building fires on Thanksgiving Day (2014-2016) was more than double the average number of fires on other days. Avoid a fire with these safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Use your turkey fryer outdoors only, on a level surface that's well away from things that can burn.
• Do not overfill your cooking pot. Determine the correct amount of oil needed by first testing the turkey in the pot with water. Then fill the pot and be sure to dry the turkey completely before placing in the pot.
• Turn off the fuel source or flame when adding the turkey to the hot oil to prevent a dangerous flare-up if oil does spill over the rim.
• A partially frozen turkey will cause hot oil to splatter. Make sure it is completely thawed and dry before placing in the pot.
• Avoid overheating of your turkey fryer and causing a fire by checking the temperature often with a cooking thermometer.
• Use long cooking gloves to protect hands and arms when you handle the pot, lid and handles of a turkey fryer.
• Do not use ice or water to cool down oil or extinguish an oil fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher that is approved for grease fires nearby while cooking.

This holiday season, remember to drop off your used cooking oil so it can be disposed of properly.

Pouring cooking oil down your drain leads to clogs and costly repair bills. The grease solidifies and over time the pipes become blocked causing raw sewage to back up into homes and overflow onto streets.

If you have a small amount of oil or fat leftover from cooking, allow it to solidify and then scrape or pour into a sealed container, then place the container in the trash can. Also place any leftover scraps in your trash and do not use your garbage disposal as a grinder for foods as these will also build up and cause blockage in the pipes.

For larger amounts of used cooking oil, like that leftover after frying a turkey, please visit Buckeye's Household Hazardous Waste page to learn more about household hazardous waste disposal, or call 623-349-6802 to schedule a drop off appointment.