As the holiday season approaches, State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor reminds all North Carolina residents of the dangers associated with turkey fryers and urges families to prioritize safety during their Thanksgiving Day celebrations.

“Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential risks that come with holiday cooking,” Taylor said. “Deep-frying turkeys can be dangerous if not done properly, leading to serious burns and house fires. We want everyone to enjoy the season safely.”

Key safety tips:

• Choose the right location: Always set up your fryer on a flat, non-flammable surface outdoors, away from your home, decks and overhangs.
• Do not overfill: Overfilling the pot with oil can cause it to spill over when the turkey is submerged, resulting in a fire.
• Ensure the turkey is completely thawed: Water and oil don’t mix, and a partially frozen turkey can cause oil to splatter and ignite.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby: Make sure you have a multipurpose fire extinguisher readily available. Never use water to put out an oil fire.

Taylor suggests opting for oven-roasting, grilling, or electric fryers with built-in safety features for those seeking safer alternatives.

“While turkey fryers have become popular, they’re not the only way to prepare a holiday meal,” Taylor said. “Oven-roasting or grilling can provide the same results with far less risk.”

Each year, cooking-related fires peak during the holiday season, with Thanksgiving being the leading day for home cooking fires in the United States. Taylor urges residents to take these precautions seriously to prevent accidents and ensure a happy holiday.