Tips for a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food, but it’s also a time when safety should be top of mind. Whether you’re frying a turkey, cooking a big meal, or enjoying the festivities, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that your holiday stays fun and free from accidents. At JJ White, safety is our priority, and we want to help you stay safe while you celebrate this season of gratitude.
Turkey Frying Safety: Keep Your Feast Safe and Delicious
One of the most popular Thanksgiving traditions is frying a turkey. While frying a turkey can result in a flavorful and crispy bird, it also comes with its own set of risks. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind if you plan to fry your turkey this year:
- Use a Factory-Built Fryer
Never use a homemade fryer. Factory-built fryers are specifically designed to safely handle the high temperatures needed for frying a turkey. Homemade fryers can be unstable, pose fire risks, and may not meet safety standards. - Place the Fryer on a Level Surface
Always set up your fryer on a flat, stable surface. Ensure it’s at least 10 feet away from buildings, wooden structures, and combustible materials like dry leaves. Never move the fryer while it’s in use. - Thaw and Dry the Turkey
A common mistake is placing a frozen turkey into hot oil, which can cause dangerous splattering and even fires. Always make sure your turkey is completely thawed and dry before lowering it into the oil. Moisture in the turkey can cause the hot oil to bubble over and ignite. - Use a Thermometer
Keep the oil temperature under control by using a thermometer. Many fryers come with built-in thermostats, but if yours doesn’t, use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. This ensures the oil stays at a safe temperature, typically between 350°F to 375°F. - Don’t Overfill the Fryer
Avoid overfilling your fryer with oil. An easy way to measure how much oil you’ll need is by filling the fryer with water first, then lowering the turkey in. The water level will show you how much oil to use—be sure the oil doesn’t exceed this level. - Wear Protective Gear
Safety first! Wear long sleeves, oven mitts, and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from hot oil splatters. A splash of hot oil can cause serious burns, so take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. - Keep Children and Pets Away
Always keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the fryer. Hot oil can splatter or spill, and a hot fryer can quickly become a fire hazard. When you’re finished frying, make sure no one comes near the fryer until it’s completely cooled down. - Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
It’s crucial to have a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher nearby in case of a grease fire. Never use water to try to put out a grease fire—it will only make it worse. If a fire does occur, use the extinguisher immediately. - Never Leave the Fryer Unattended
Never leave a frying turkey unattended. The oil can overheat and catch fire if left unchecked. Stay by the fryer the entire time it’s in use, and always ensure someone is watching the pot until the turkey is fully cooked and the oil has cooled. - Check the Internal Temperature
To make sure your turkey is fully cooked, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. The turkey is done when the thickest part of the breast, the innermost part of the wing, and the innermost part of the thigh have all reached 165°F. - Let the Oil Cool
Once you’re done frying, carefully remove the pot from the burner and allow the oil to cool overnight before disposing of it. Hot oil can stay dangerously warm for hours, so make sure it’s completely cool before handling.