Dryer Fires Can Be Easily Prevented

Doing laundry is probably part of your daily routine.  But do you know how important taking care of your clothes dryer is to the safety of your home?  Failure to clean dryers is the leading cause of home dryer fires.  With a few simple tips, you can help prevent a clothes dryer fire.

• Ensure your dryer is installed and services by a professional.

• Make sure to use a lint filter every time.

• Clean the lint filter after each load of laundry.

• Remove lint that has collected around the drum.

• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.

• Ensure that the air exhaust pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating.

• Clean lint out of the vent pipe at least once a year.

• Gas dryers should be inspected to make sure the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.

• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.

• Turn the dryer off when you leave home or go to bed.

And Don’t Forget:

• Dryers should be properly grounded.

• Check the outdoor vent flap to make sure it’s not covered by snow.

• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn such as boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing.

• Clothes that come in contact with flammable substances like gasoline, paint thinner or similar solvents should be laid outside to dry, then washed and dried as usual.