Prevent A Turkey Fryer Fire this Thanksgiving

11/14/2016 (Permalink)

Dont let this happen to you. but if is does SERVPRO of South Garland is here to clean up the mess. call us at (972)278-7871

In recent years deep-frying turkeys has become increasingly popular. The cooking method requires placing the turkey in three gallons or more of oil, heated by propane. SERVPRO of South Garland recognizes that cooking in general is the most common cause of fires, this method for cooking turkey is much more dangerous that your normal every day cooking. That being said if you take your time and do it right. Your turkey could be the best tasting you have this year. And while we are always here to clean up if something goes horribly wrong, it would be much easier to prevent this disaster from happening in the first place.

Before you ever get near the deep fryer, wants you to know that, however you cook your turkey, safety starts with proper thawing. Leaving a turkey out on a counter to thaw can cause Salmonella poisoning. Turkey (and all meats and fish, really) should be thawed in the refrigerator. Give yourself enough time to properly thaw your turkey. Here are the USDA guidelines for thawing a whole turkey in the refrigerator:

• 4 to 12 pounds: one to three days
• 12 to 16 pounds: three to four days
• 16 to 20 pounds: four to five days
• 20 to 24 pounds: five to six days

SERVPRO of South Garland warns that cooking with deep-fat turkey fryers can be very dangerous as they have a high risk of tipping over, overheating, or spilling hot oil. That could lead to fires, burns, or other injuries.

Dangers of Frying a Turkey

Here are five dangers associated with deep frying a turkey, according to SERVPRO of South Garland.

1. Units can easily tip over, spilling hot cooking oil over a large area.
2. An overfilled cooking pot or partially frozen turkey will cause cooking oil to spill when the turkey is inserted.
3. A small amount of cooking oil coming into contact with the burner can cause a large fire.
4. Without thermostat controls, deep fryers have the potential to overheat the oil to the point of combustion.
5. The sides of the cooking pot, lid and pot handles can get dangerously hot, creating severe burn hazards.

SERVPRO of South Garland advises against using a turkey fryer. If you decide to do it anyway, these precautions should be followed.

If You Fry a Turkey, Do So Safely

• Fryers should always be used outdoors, on a solid level surface a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
• Never use a fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage or enclosed space.
• Do not overfill the fryer.
• Never leave the fryer unattended because, without thermostat controls, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire.
• Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.
• Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts and wear long sleeves and safety goggles to protect from splatter.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a fryer.
• Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers nearby.
• If a turkey fryer fire occurs, call 911 immediately.

If there is a disaster remember SERVPRO of South Garland is always ready to come and take care of the mess. We want you to be safe and continue your life as quickly as possible. If you need help Cleaning up after a fire give us a call at (972)278-7871.