Beware the Dangers: Fried Turkey Fire Videos Go Viral

As Thanksgiving approaches, videos demonstrating the fiery dangers of deep frying turkeys have begun circulating widely on social media. These shocking videos, shared by agencies like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), serve as urgent warnings about the hazards of using turkey fryers. Keep reading to learn about these turkey frying accident videos and why they represent such an important safety message.

Annual Reminders of Turkey Fryer Risks

Every November as Thanksgiving nears various government and consumer safety agencies publish graphic videos showing extreme turkey frying fails resulting in explosive flames. These agencies include the CPSC U.S. Fire Administration, and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Their goal is to make the public aware of the dangers associated with using outdoor propane turkey fryers. By vividly demonstrating worst case scenarios, they hope to convince people to seek out safer alternative cooking methods.

These annual fried turkey fire videos tend to gain huge traction on social media. In 2022 a CPSC tweet containing a turkey fryer fail compilation reached 3 million views in just one day. The startling imagery serves as a visceral reminder that caution is required.

Dramatic Turkey Frying Accidents Caught on Video

The videos of turkey frying disasters shared by the CPSC and other agencies are both dramatic and frightening. Here are some of the incidents commonly depicted:

• A frozen turkey is lowered into hot oil, instantly causing a massive eruption of flames

• A fryer tipped over, spilling gallons of scalding hot oil and engulfing the area in fire

• Flames rapidly overtaking a patio after a turkey is submerged, charring the entire outdoor space

• A propane tank explosion sending the lid of the fryer flying and creating a fireball

• Indoor fryer fires where flames spread across walls and ceilings in seconds

• Severe injuries like deep burns being sustained by those attempting to move the fryer

Seeing these close calls emphatically demonstrates how quickly controlled frying can turn into a dangerous blaze when equipment malfunctions or errors occur. The startling videos are hard to forget.

Sobering Home Frying Fire Statistics

Alongside the jaw-dropping videos, agencies cite sobering statistics that further highlight the fire risks of using outdoor turkey fryers:

• On average, 2,300 Thanksgiving Day fires occur annually in residential buildings in the U.S.

• Thanksgiving sees more than double the number of cooking fires versus a typical day.

• Frying turkeys causes an estimated 5 deaths, 25 injuries, and $26 million in property damage each year.

• 60% of home cooking fire injuries happen while frying food.

• 40% of home fires involving cooking equipment result from fryers specifically.

These troubling numbers provide context on just how hazardous turkey frying can be. The statistics and videos together deliver a one-two punch to discourage the practice.

Preventing Accidents and Reducing Risk

The agencies publishing these fried turkey fire videos also provide tips to reduce the risk of accidents if you do choose to fry a turkey:

• Never fry indoors – only use fryers outside on flat surfaces away from buildings.

• Don’t overfill fryers with oil – follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

• Fryers should never be used on wooden decks or near flammable items.

• Ensure the turkey is fully thawed and dry before immersing in hot oil.

• Turn off propane tanks when not in use and don’t leave fryers unattended.

• Keep children and pets away from the hot fryer at all times.

• Have multiple fire extinguishers on hand in case of emergency.

However, the overall message communicated is that not frying at all is the safest choice. The dramatic videos certainly make that point effectively!

Viral Viewership Shows Public Impact

The astonishing view counts racked up by these fried turkey fire videos demonstrate their ability to capture public attention. For example, the CPSC’s 2022 tweet quickly amassed 3 million views, 73,000 likes, and widespread news coverage.

This vast viewership shows that even years after these videos first began circulating, they still enthrall and educate viewers. The shocking sights make it difficult to ignore their warnings about the hazards of hot oil and open flames.

Given their viral nature, these dramatic videos will likely continue being widely shared as cautionary tales. With public safety at stake, their troubling images send a message that clearly resonates.

Alternatives to Risky Deep Frying Methods

For those seeking a safer and less nerve-wracking turkey cooking method this Thanksgiving, here are some alternatives to be aware of:

• Oven Roasting – The traditional and most popular cooking technique, resulting in moist, juicy meat.

• Grilling – Infuses delicious smoky flavor when cooked on a charcoal or gas grill.

• Smoking – Slow-smoking over low heat keeps the turkey extra moist.

• Air Frying – Uses circulating hot air for crispy skin without oil splatter risks.

• Sous Vide – Cooks the turkey gently in a water bath then finishes it in the oven.

• Deep Frying – While risky, using proper precautions reduces the dangers.

With so many options available, there are lots of ways to enjoy perfect turkey without putting yourself in harm’s way this Thanksgiving.

Key Takeaways from Turkey Fryer Fire Videos

• They vividly demonstrate worrisome fire risks that frequently occur.

• Statistics shared alongside the videos further contextualize the hazards.

• Reminding the public annually helps promote crucial safety awareness.

• Their viral viewership proves the messages resonate with audiences.

• Caution and preparedness are essential to reduce chances of accidents.

• Ultimately, not frying at all is the best way to stay safe.

So exercise caution this season, consider safer alternative cooking techniques, and please refrain from bringing the turkey fryer into the house! Stay fire-free this Thanksgiving.