SERVPRO’s List of Do’s and Don’ts for Deep Frying a Turkey this Thanksgiving:

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

The fire was created by a deep fryer that overflowed on an open flame in a structural building.

With Thanksgiving Day just around the corner, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville would like to share with you some tips for deep frying your turkey this year! Every year, fire departments across the country get called out for house fires on Thanksgiving, most of them because of improper cooking techniques. Here is a list of dos and Don’ts for deep frying your turkey this year!

Do’s:

• Keep outdoor fryers off decks, out of garages, and a safe distance away from trees and structures.
• Keep the fryer on a stable and level surface.
• Leave 2 feet between the tank and the burner when using a propane-powered fryer.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid overfilling.
• **** Remember oil can ignite when it contacts the burner. ****
• Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A turkey that is 8 to 10 pounds is best.
• Wear goggles to shield your eyes.
• Use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms.
• In case of emergency keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by.

Don’ts:

• Never leave fryers unattended for any reason whatsoever.
• Never leave kids or pets unattended around the fryer.
• Do not use too much oil. **** Dropping your turkey into too much oil will cause oil to overflow from the pot and can result in significant injury and/or fire once the oil meets the fire or heating element. ****
• Avoid moving the fryer when it is in use.
• Do not deep fry a frozen turkey. Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 4 days before cooking. **** Allowing ice or water into the hot oil can cause flare-ups. ****
• Watch the weather forecast, you never want to work with a fryer when it’s raining or snowing outside.
• Never put the turkey into the fryer when the burner is on. Submerge turkey in oil and then turn on the burner.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is always available in case you do have an accident and require us to come out. Remember, we are always faster to any size disaster and make your property look "Like it never even happened." We are happy to be of service to you and your family during the upcoming holidays! Whether it is because of water damage or something as extreme as fire damage, there is no job that is too big or too small for your team here at SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville.