Keep the turkey in its original packaging if intact
Place the turkey in a leak-proof plastic bag
Submerge it in cold water
Change the water every 30 minutes
Allow about 30 minutes per pound
Cook immediately after thawing
Use the microwave defrost setting only for smaller turkeys
Rotate and flip the turkey during microwave thawing
Cook immediately after microwave thawing
Never thaw a turkey at room temperature
Never use hot water to thaw a turkey