Fire officials warn of the dangers of turkey frying before Thanksgiving

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (NBC, KYMA) - Thanksgiving is right around the corner. But what should be a fun, family meal can quickly turn into disaster if you're not careful.

That's why the Winston-Salem Fire Department in North Carolina hosted it's annual "Safe Turkey Frying" demonstration.

If you want to deep-fry your bird, there are a few safety precautions you should take. Officials say you should never overfill the fryer and always use it outside.

Make sure your turkey is fully thawed, and dried as well, before it goes in.

If your turkey fryer catches fire, use a fire extinguisher to put it out because water can cause hot oil to spread.

If you can't put it out on your own, evacuate immediately and call 9-1-1.