Thanksgiving turkey deep frying can get dangerous very quickly
Deep frying a turkey is dangerous. Here are tips from fire safety experts to avoid burning down your house.
Michael V. Pettigano, Rebecca King and Paul Wood Jr, NorthJersey.com
Deep frying a turkey in a backyard is legal in New Jersey, but the holiday tradition comes with significant fire risks, making strict safety precautions essential as Thanksgiving approaches.
Thanksgiving safety tips for frying a turkey
The New Jersey Division of Fire Safety advises on these set of guidelines for anyone planning to use a turkey fryer.
- Turkey fryers should only be used outdoors and well away from homes, garages, decks or any flammable materials. Many units are built as tripods, so placing them on a flat, stable surface helps prevent tipping.
- Because most fryers do not have thermostat controls, the oil can continue to heat until it ignites if left unattended. Keep children and pets far from the equipment, noting that the oil inside can remain dangerously hot for hours.
- To prevent spills and burns, users should avoid overfilling the fryer and use insulated potholders or oven mitts when handling lids or pots, which can quickly become extremely hot. Safety goggles can also help protect against splattering oil.
- A fully thawed turkey is critical. Water or ice can cause hot oil to spill over leading to fires or even explosions. The National Turkey Federation advises thawing a turkey in the refrigerator for about 24 hours per 5 pounds of weight.
- An all-purpose fire extinguisher should be kept close at hand. Water should never be used on a grease fire; if flames grow beyond control, the safest option is to immediately call the fire department.
As holiday cooking begins across the state, following these precautions can help ensure a safe and incident-free celebration.
