by Charlotte, NC — As Thanksgiving approaches, North Carolina fire officials are urging residents to take extra precautions when preparing their holiday feasts — especially if they plan to deep-fry their turkeys.
While deep-frying can make for a crispy, flavorful bird, experts warn it’s also one of the leading causes of home fires during the holiday season.
Thousands of Fires Reported Each Thanksgiving
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, Thanksgiving Day leads the nation in home cooking fires, with more than 2,300 incidents every year. Data from Newsweek shows that fryer-related accidents cause an average of five deaths, 60 injuries, and roughly $15 million in property damage annually.
Fire departments across North Carolina have already begun reminding residents to stay alert and avoid shortcuts when cooking large meals.
The Danger Behind Frozen or Wet Turkeys
Experts explain that the biggest risk comes from frying frozen or partially thawed turkeys. When ice or water meets 350-degree oil, it instantly turns to steam and expands nearly 1,700 times its original volume, often causing boiling oil to overflow and ignite nearby surfaces.
This reaction can result in violent oil eruptions, spreading flames across patios, garages, or decks in seconds. Fire officials emphasize that even small splashes of hot oil can lead to severe burns and extensive property damage.
Safer Alternatives for Thanksgiving Cooks
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) strongly recommends skipping traditional outdoor fryers altogether. Instead, officials suggest using:
- Electric or infrared turkey fryers, which eliminate the need for open flames and oil.
- Air fryers or ovens, for a safer, cleaner cooking process.
- Pre-fried or store-bought turkeys, which reduce both prep time and risk.
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For those who insist on frying, the NFPA urges families to:
- Set up outdoors on flat concrete away from any structures.
- Ensure the turkey is completely thawed and dry before lowering it into oil.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the cooking area.
- Have a fire extinguisher on hand and never leave the fryer unattended.
A Holiday Tradition Worth Doing Safely
Charlotte fire officials say that while deep-fried turkey has become a Thanksgiving favorite, no meal is worth the risk of injury or fire. Taking the time to plan ahead and follow safety recommendations can make the difference between a perfect holiday dinner and a disaster.
How do you prepare your Thanksgiving turkey — traditional oven or deep-fried? Share your cooking tips and safety tricks in the comments at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
