Maytag Refrigerator - Sizzling, HOT element bottom of freezer

Hi folks, I've got a 2 year old Maytag side-by-side 24 cu ft refrigerator, model MSD2456GE, SIMILAR to this:

http://www.maytag.com/mths/products/product.jsp?model=MSD2357HEW&cs=0&BV_UseBVCookie=Yes

Starting tonight, there's this loud sizzling sound coming from inside the freezer, at the bottom back. It literally sounds like a sizzling steak, and it goes on and on. The sound is coming from BEHIND the white grill you see in this picture:

http://members.shaw.ca/gregsalter/fridge.jpg

Although you can't see it in the picture, I can see a RED HOT burner-type element (like in an oven).

Question 1: What is this element thing?
Question 2: Is the freezer broken (even though it's still cold)?
Question 3: If the freezer is broken, is it a fire hazard?

Thanks so much!

 

Hi gregs,
-I can't access your pic, but my best guess is that this is the defrost element in the freezer, and that it's stuck on. Somewhere down the bottom near the compressor there is a defrost timer. This may have given up in the element on position. Look for an irregular rectangular box, usually white, about 2"x3" with 4 or 5 fairly heavy wires plugged into it. This box can easily be unplugged and taken to the store for renewal. ( in your case try AMRE or Reliable Parts, both near north end of Main St. near the old Expo site)
If that doesn't do it post back and we'll go further.

Do it Right - Do it once.