A thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before cooking. For cold water thawing: Allow about 30 minutes per pound and be sure the turkey is in a leak-proof plastic bag. Submerge the wrapped turkey in cold tap water and change the water every 30 minutes. Cook the turkey immediately after it is thawed.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, while frozen, a turkey is safe indefinitely. As soon as it begins to thaw, bacteria that may have been present before freezing will begin to grow again.

Avoid a Thanksgiving disaster! Each year, deep fryers are responsible for more than 1,000 fires, according to AccuWeather.