Can You Deep Fry a Turkey in the Rain?

Tips for cooking a turkey in a deep fryer without causing a dangerous fire this Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is a time for family and holiday traditions including taste testing Thanksgiving recipes. Additionally, family members might want to assist with meal preparation during this time, so fire safety is crucial. For some people, deep-frying turkeys has become a Thanksgiving custom because of how quickly they cook and how delicious and juicy they become. Turkey fryers have the potential to cause fire and serious injury. According to the National Fire Protection Association, these deep fryers typically result in 60 injuries, 5 fatalities, and over $15 million worth of property damage annually. Because of injuries, Underwriters Laboratories does not safety certify any turkey fryers. If you want to deep-fry your turkey for the holidays, make sure you know how to operate the fryer safely and follow these safety tips to keep your family, yourself, and your house safe.

Don’t let a little rain dampen your Thanksgiving feast! While deep-frying a turkey in the rain might seem like a daunting task, it’s entirely possible with the right precautions and a little ingenuity.

Here’s what you need to know:

Safety First:

Never fry a turkey in the rain without a canopy or other shelter. Rainwater mixing with hot oil can create a dangerous situation.
Use a sturdy canopy that can withstand wind and rain. Ensure it’s large enough to cover the fryer and provide ample clearance.
Keep the canopy secured with weights or stakes to prevent it from blowing away.
Position the fryer on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials.
Always have a fire extinguisher readily available in case of emergencies.
Never leave the fryer unattended while it’s operating.

Frying in the Rain:

Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Ensure it stays within the recommended range for deep-frying turkey.
Be mindful of the wind direction. Position the fryer so that the wind blows away from the flame.
Wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses.
Be extra cautious when handling the hot oil, as rain can make the surface slippery.
Have towels on hand to wipe up any spills immediately.

Additional Tips:

Consider using a propane fryer instead of a turkey fryer. Propane fryers are generally less susceptible to wind and rain.
If the rain is particularly heavy, you might want to postpone your turkey fry until the weather improves.
Remember, safety is paramount. If you have any doubts about frying a turkey in the rain, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Alternatives to Deep-Frying:

Roasting: Roasting a turkey is a classic and reliable method that doesn’t require dealing with hot oil.
Smoking: Smoking a turkey imparts a delicious smoky flavor and can be done indoors or outdoors.
Air-frying: Air-frying is a healthier alternative to deep-frying and can still produce a crispy skin.

While deep-frying a turkey in the rain requires extra precautions, it’s certainly achievable with the right approach. By following these safety tips and using common sense, you can still enjoy a delicious and crispy turkey even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Remember, safety always comes first, so don’t hesitate to postpone your turkey fry if the weather conditions are too risky.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tips to prevent deep fried turkey accidents

Never leave fryers unattended.
Keep outdoor fryers away from wood decks, trees, and buildings at a safe distance.
Never use fryers in garages.
After it is in use, keep the fryer stationary by placing it on a level surface.
Never attempt to fry a frozen turkey. Fires can occur when ice or water gets mixed into the hot oil. Make sure the turkey is thawed and dry before cooking. Also, skip stuffing the turkey before frying.
Be cautious of the weather. Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow.
There should be 2 feet between the burner and tank.
Follow the manufacturers instructions to avoid overfilling.
Choose the proper size turkey. A bird thats 8 to 10 pounds is best.
Purchase a fryer with temperature controls. Continuously check the oil temperature carefully. Cooking oil can catch fire if it is heated above its smoke point. TURN OFF THE FRYER if you see the oil smoking.
Before lowering the turkey into the oil, turn off the burner. Once the turkey is submerged, turn the burner back on.
Wear protective cooking gear. Use oven mitts to protect your hands and arms, put on goggles to protect your eyes, and keep a grease-rated or “ABC” fire extinguisher nearby. NEVER put out a fire caused by a turkey fryer with water or a garden hose.
Always keep children and pets away from the fryer.
When you’re done, switch off the burner, carefully take out the pot, set it on a level surface, and cover it to allow the oil to cool overnight before throwing it away.
Opt for an oil-less fryer. This cooks the turkey without the use of oil by using infrared heat.

Following the preparation of your turkey, keep in mind these Thanksgiving food safety guidelines to make sure your family enjoys a fun and safe holiday.

Deep frying a turkey in the rain

FAQ

Can I deep-fry a turkey in my garage?

Location. Place fryer on a level dirt or grassy area. Never fry a turkey indoors, in a garage or in any other structure attached to a building.

Does a turkey have to be dry before deep-frying?

Make sure your turkey is completely thawed and very dry. Moisture, especially ice crystals, is your number-one enemy when deep-frying a turkey.

What not to do when frying a turkey?

Make sure the turkey is completely thawed before it is placed in a fryer. Never leave the fryer unattended because, without thermostat controls, the oil will continue to heat until it catches fire. Never let children or pets near the fryer when in use or after use as the oil can remain hot for hours.

Can you deep-fry a turkey on a windy day?

Choose the Right Day Oil and water don’t mix; precipitation can make the oil spatter out of the pot and into the flames below, causing a fire. Don’t fry when it’s windy.