DRYER FIRE PREVENTION: Do’s and Don’ts

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Dryer

DRYER FIRE PREVENTION: Do’s and Don’ts

Dryer fires are a fairly common cause of home fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, dryers and washing machines cause an average 15, 970 fires each year, with dryers causing 92 percent of them. These clothes dryer fires have led to significant damage, million in property loss and hundreds of injuries. However, this is easily avoidable with a few simple preventive measures.

Do’s

1. Clean the dryer’s lint filter on a regular basis.

 After every use, you need to clean out the lint filter. This is an especially important task to remember because clogged lint filters are the top factor when it comes to home dryer fires.

Make it a habit toc heck the lint filter when you load your dryer. Cleaning lint filters not only helps prevent dryer fire from occurring, but it also allows your dryer to run efficiently.

2. Inspect the dryer’s duct and vents regularly

Blockage in the dryer ducts or vents is another cause of dryer fires. If any ducts have been blocked, be sure to clean them before you use it again. Common indicators of clogged ducts include exhaust air not leaving the vent, overheated machines and loads of laundry that take longer to dry than usual. Check your ducts and vents on a monthly basis to guarantee there are no blockages. If blockage result of damaged ducts, have a professional tend to the damage.

3. Have your dryer professionally cleaned

Contact a professional to conduct dryer cleanings. You can ensure that your dryer is properly cleaned, including its venting system.

Don’ts

1. Don’t overload your dryer

Excessive amount of lint can build up if you overload your dryer. Dryer cannot properly ventilate if more lint has accumulated and overheats and can result in a fire. Only load your clothes dryer to its capacity.

2. Don’t dry anything that shouldn’t be exposed to heat

Check label of instructions on how to properly dry clothes and other item before you place in the dryer. If your clothes or other items have come into contact with oil, alcohol, gas or any other flammable substance, do not dry them in the dryer either.

3. Don’t use your dryer without the lint filter

Using your dryer without its lint filter can easily lead to fire. When lint filter is absent, lint can effortlessly build up in the dryer and lead to a fire.

When you use your clothes dryer, keep these fire prevention tips in mind so that you limit the potential for dryer fires.

For fire damage restoration and cleanup services, please call us SERVPRO of Ventura at (805) 656-3911.