OKC Experts Warn Of Deep-Frying Turkey Dangers

Can you almost taste it? That Thanksgiving turkey, that's probably already thawing in your fridge. Many of us may be considering deep frying our holiday bird. But that method can present some serious dangers.

According to State Farm insurance, deep fryer fires account for $15 million in property damage every year.

At Pearl's Crabtown this week, they'll deep fry about 400 turkeys and they know this can be dangerous business if not done right.

"We don't put any frozen birds in like some people do," said Crabtown manager Frank Nelson.

Video on YouTube shows what happens if you try to deep fry a turkey that isn't completely thawed. The video posted by State Farm also warns what could happen if you don't turn off the burner, and the oil spills over the pot.

"It's a popular thing in the last few years, they're very moist and they taste good but that is a very high risk when you do something like that," said Fire Chief Marc Woodard.

Chief Woodard knows that first hand he has fought fires that started just like this.

"Got into the sophet area and into the attic and completely gutted about a $250,000 dollar home," Chief Woodard said.

For that reason experts also warn against frying inside your garage or too close to a house.

And make sure you stay with your fryer don't be distracted by football or family. Because of the potential for danger, keep a fire extinguisher close by.

It may take three or four days to completely thaw a 15 pound turkey in the fridge.

Experts also say to slowly immerse the turkey, again with the burners off, then add cold oil to until the pot if filled little below the top of the turkey.