Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and traditions — and for many, that includes the excitement of deep-frying a turkey. The crispy skin and juicy flavor are unbeatable, but so are the risks if it’s not done safely. Every year, hundreds of homes across the country suffer fire damage from improperly used turkey fryers, leaving behind smoke, soot, and thousands of dollars in losses that could have been avoided.
At MSI, we’ve seen the aftermath of these accidents firsthand — and we want you to enjoy your holiday safely.
Why Deep-Frying Can Be Dangerous
Deep-frying a turkey involves heating several gallons of oil to around 350°F. That oil can ignite in seconds if it spills over or comes in contact with an open flame. A few of the most common mistakes that cause fires include:
- Using too much oil in the fryer
- Frying a partially frozen or wet turkey
- Setting up too close to garages, decks, or trees
- Leaving the fryer unattended
When oil spills over, it can instantly ignite, sending flames several feet into the air — and within moments, what started as a backyard feast can turn into a devastating fire.
Safety Tips for a Safe Fry
Here are some key precautions to keep your holiday free from hazards:
✅ Always fry outdoors, away from structures and trees
Set up on a flat, nonflammable surface at least 10 feet from your home or garage.
✅ Completely thaw and dry the turkey
Water or ice hitting hot oil can cause violent splattering and boil-overs.
✅ Measure your oil carefully
Do a “test run” with water first to see how much oil you actually need.
✅ Turn off the burner before lowering the turkey in
This reduces the chance of oil igniting if it spills.
✅ Keep a Class B fire extinguisher nearby
Never use water on a grease fire — it will make it worse.
✅ Stay close and stay alert
Never leave the fryer unattended, and keep kids and pets well away from the cooking area.
If a Fire Starts
If a grease fire breaks out, do not try to move the fryer.
Turn off the burner if it’s safe to do so, step back, and use a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires.
If the flames spread, evacuate immediately and call 911 — safety comes first.
When the Smoke Clears: Why Professional Cleanup Matters
Even small cooking fires can leave behind soot particles and smoke contamination throughout a home. These residues are invisible but toxic — they cling to walls, furniture, and HVAC systems, releasing odors and harmful compounds long after the flames are out.
MSI specializes in fire and smoke damage restoration, odor removal, and soot cleaning to restore homes safely and completely. From inspection to deodorization, we handle every step with care and precision so your home is safe to live in again.
Enjoy the Holiday — Safely
Thanksgiving should be about family, not fire cleanup. Take the time to prepare properly, follow these safety steps, and keep your celebration focused on gratitude, not damage repair.
If your holiday takes a turn and you need help after a fire or smoke incident, MSI is ready to respond quickly and professionally.
📞 Call 215-339-1769 or 877-712-1600 for certified fire and smoke damage restoration.









