Recreation & Holidays: Deep Fried Turkey Safety

Holiday revelers are cautioned to use turkey deep fat fryers carefully Deep Fried Turkey Graphic

The Washington State Fire Marshal says, "The process of deep frying a turkey requires preparation and precaution. The instructions provided with the cooking-pot should be read carefully before attempting to deep-fry a turkey. This is critical in order to prevent a serious fire or burn injury."

The Office of the State Fire Marshal consulted the National Turkey Federation and the Turkey Information Exchange to develop these safety tips:

  1. Prepare in advance, and use proper equipment
    • Use a specially designed outdoor cooker/deep fryer with a perforated basket insert. The cooking pot should be a 10-gallon or more capacity unit that stands three feet high and is hooked up to a propane gas cylinder. The propane cylinder must be separated by a minimum of 2-feet from the fryer. Remember it is important to read and follow the manufacturer's directions and safety instructions that come with the cooker.
    • Place the fryer on a flat and level surface.
    • Be aware of your clothing around the hot oil, which can spatter, and the open flame, which could ignite clothing. Roll sleeves up and tuck away loose clothing.
    • Be sure you are strong enough to lower the turkey into and lift it from 350-degree oil safely.
  2. Keep heated items (hot oil and the propane cooker) way from anything that can burn.
    • The entire area for at least 10-feet in all directions must be fireproof. Never deep-fry a turkey indoors, in garage, on a porch, on a deck, or in any other structure attached to a building
    • Keep children and pets away from the cooking area. Never leave the hot oil unattended.
    • The deep-fryer unit should be positioned so any wind will direct the heat away from the gas cylinder, people, and structures.
  3. Watch what you heat and cook.
    • Deep fryers must all be attended during cooking. Never use a frozen turkey, the ice crystals can cause it to "explode" when it comes in contact with the hot oil.
    • Oil should not be allowed to go over 350-degrees; oil can ignite at 375-degrees. Allow oil to cool completely before disposing or storing.
    • Never cover the deep fryer, this could cause over heating, or boiling-over of the hot oil.
    • Should a fire start, clear all people from the area and call 911 immediately.
  4. Enjoy your turkey when you're done. It tastes great!