Thanksgiving Turkey Fryers Pose Fire Risk and Cost Millions in Claims

Thanksgiving is the peak day for cooking fires in the U.S., with over 1,400 incidents annually—more than triple the daily average. A significant number of these fires are linked to turkey deep fryers, which can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, and millions in property damage. As Americans gear up for the holiday, fire departments nationwide are issuing urgent warnings about the hazards of improper fryer use.

The National Fire Protection Association and Consumer Product Safety Commission both caution against gas-fueled turkey fryers, citing risks such as oil combustion, fryer tip-overs, and flash fires caused by water or frozen meat contacting hot oil. Weather conditions like wind, rain, snow, and drought can further amplify the danger, creating complex scenarios for emergency response and property damage assessments.

For claims adjusters, these fryer-related incidents represent a seasonal surge in fire-related homeowners’ claims, with potential complications from structural fires, personal injury claims, and even wildfire spread in drought-prone areas. Adjusters should also be aware of possible liability exposures if property owners failed to follow safety guidelines or local ordinances.

Fire departments, like in Raleigh, are proactively demonstrating worst-case scenarios to raise awareness. These efforts not only educate the public but also provide critical insights into loss causation and risk mitigation. With preventive messaging in place and detailed incident documentation, adjusters can better navigate the influx of holiday fire claims.