Never Turn It On Empty: Do not plug in or turn on the fryer before adding oil. Heating the element dry can permanently damage it or cause a fire hazardPositioning the Guard Plate: Make sure the stainless steel bottom grate/shield is placed over the heating elements at the bottom of the basin. This keeps the wire frying basket and food from touching the coils directlyAvoid Water Splatter: Always pat food dry before submerging it into the hot oil. Drops of water will cause violent bubbling and hot oil to splatter dangerous levels of steam/grease