Give Thanks & Use Our Turkey Safety Tips

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

How do you cook your turkey?

Did you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments responded to about 1,570 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving in 2016, the peak day for such fires? And that the number 1 reason was because of unattended cooking. 

It seems so simple to not let should disaster happen but as simple as it is to think that way, is as simple it is for those flames to sparks. You may believe that this will never happen to you, but here at SERVPRO of St. Mary's and Calvert Counties we want to help ensure that your holiday doesn't turn into flames. 

Planning on frying your turkey?

• Don't use fryer inside! Keep fryers off decks, out of garages and a safe distance away from trees and other structures.
• Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Extra ice or water mixing into the hot oil can cause the oil to overflow leading to flare-ups.
• Place the fryer on a level surface, and do not move it once it's in use.
• Keep a safe distance between the tank and the burner (when using a propane-powered fryer).
• Choose a smaller turkey for frying. A bird that's 8 to 10 pounds is best.
• Never leave fryers unattended.
• Watch the oil temperature carefully. If you notice the oil is smoking, turn the fryer off.
• Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey into the oil. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner on.
• Wear protective eye-wear, use oven mitts and keep a fire extinguisher close by. 
• Keep children and pets away from the fryer at all times.
• Once finished, carefully remove the pot from the burner, place it on a level surface and cover to let the oil cool overnight before disposing.

Baking?

• Make sure bird is completely thawed and dried
• Ensure the appropriate time for cooking the turkey. Use a meat thermometer to check if the bird is cooked.
• Clean the oven and areas around
• Use pot mittens 

Thanksgiving is a time for family and holiday traditions! Don't let a simple mistake turn into huge disaster. 

SERVPRO of St. Mary's and Calvert Counties would like to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!