Dangers of Frying A Turkey

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

A turkey should never be fried in an enclosed space

In recent years deep-frying turkeys has become increasingly popular. The cooking method requires placing the turkey in 3 gallons or more of oil, heated by propane. 

The SERVPRO 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 and could lead to fires, burns, or other injuries.

5 Dangers of Frying a Turkey
Here are 5 dangers associated with deep frying a turkey, according to SERVPRO:

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

Turkey Frying Safety Tips
SERVPRO advises against using a turkey fryer. If you decide to do it anyway, these precautions should be followed. Please follow these tips to stay safe: 

• Do not overfill the fryer.
• Fryers should always be used outdoors, on a solid level surface a safe distance from buildings and flammable materials.
• If a turkey fryer fire occurs, call 911 immediately.
• Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers nearby.
• Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a 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.
• Never use a fryer on a wooden deck, under a patio cover, in a garage or enclosed space.
• Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts and wear long sleeves and safety goggles to protect from splatter.

About SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito

SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  SERVPRO of South San Rafael/Sausalito has the experience and training to make your home safe and livable again. Call us at 415-479-2900 to learn more about our professional cleanup services.