Safety Tips For Deep Frying a Turkey

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Over 900 fires a year, according to some statistics, are caused by deep frying turkeys. Although deep-fried turkey can be a delicious way to celebrate Thanksgiving, the process can be dangerous. However, there are some precautions you can take to avoid disaster. Don’t be a turkey this year and stay safe by following these tips:

1. Keep the fryer away from your property. Frying in your home or garage can easily lead to a fire. Oil can sputter or spill, or it can overheat and cause a ball of fire to burst from the fryer. Stay at least ten feet away from any building or place of potential hazard to minimize risk.
2. Use protective gear. Often, even the handles of fryers can reach extreme temperatures. Make sure you wear protective clothing, such as oven mitts and goggles, to protect yourself from burns and grease that might sputter. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. Water will only exacerbate a grease fire, so it’s important to have the right equipment,
3. Thaw your turkey. The excess water from a frozen turkey could cause the grease to bubble and burst from the fryer. Preparing your turkey ahead of time can help prevent this.

Make sure you monitor the frying process carefully. Pay attention to temperatures, and make sure the fryer is on flat and sturdy ground. Also make sure that children, pets, and anyone who isn’t cooking stays away from the fryer.

If disaster occurs, give us a call at SERVPRO of Northbrook / Wheeling / Glencoe, (847) 498-8889 and we’ll be there to restore, clean, and recovery any kind of fire damage.