Deep frying can be one of the best methods to cook a delicious, juicy turkey for Thanksgiving. Before you decide to fire up your deep fryer this year, you should be aware that these devices cause over $15 million in property damage every year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). To protect your home, your loved ones, and to help ensure you successfully fry your bird, read the fire safety dos and don’ts below.
- DO fry your turkey at least 10 feet from your home, wooden decks, vehicles, etc., on a flat, dry surface.
- DON’T fill the oil all the way to the top of the pot in case it starts to boil over.
- DO make sure to wear protective gloves when handling the turkey and the fryer, as they can get dangerously hot.
- DON’T use a frozen or partially frozen turkey. It can cause the hot oil to splatter when the turkey is placed in the pot.
- DO have a fire extinguisher ready on-hand in case the deep fryer becomes too hot, or a fire starts.
- DON’T let children or pets near the deep fryer. It can cause serious injury if they accidently touch or bump into it.
- DO turn off the burner once your turkey is finished cooking and allow the oil to cool overnight before disposal.
The NFPA reports Thanksgiving as the leading day for cooking fires, three times as high as any other day of the year. Accidents can happen to anyone, so don’t risk it – it’s better to be cautious. Utica National wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.
This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.