Approximately 13,000 residential structure fires occur annually as a result of fires originating from clothes dryers. 70 percent of these fires are attributed to “failure to clean.”
To help prevent dryer fires, use metal dryer ducts leading from your dryer to the wall vent. Flexible dryer ducts made of foil or plastic can sag and let lint build up at low points. Metal ducts, flexible or solid, are safer because they don’t sag, so lint is less likely to build up. If a fire does start, a metal duct is more likely to contain it.
Remove visible lint from the lint screen each time the dryer is used. This will reduce the risk of a fire. Clothes will dry faster, using less energy.
Clean inside, behind, and underneath the dryer, where lint can also build up.
Have the dryer vent system in your home cleaned on a regular basis.
Avoid drying clothes stained with volatile chemicals such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils and stains. Wash this clothing more than once to minimize the amount of chemicals on the clothing. Line dry instead of using a dryer.
Avoid using liquid fabric softener on all-cotton clothing made of fleece, terry cloth, or velour. Consumer Reports suggests using dryer sheets for these fabrics.
Problems may occur if improper items are placed in dryers, including foam-backed rugs or athletic shoes. Check washing instructions on the tag of each item or consult the manufacturer’s website for more information.
If you have a gas dryer heater, have it checked regularly for leaks. Ensure no sources of flame are nearby.
On a positive note, UL reports that the number of clothes dryer fires has dropped by 35 percent since the late 1970s.
Marilyn Gillis writes this column in collaboration with Sun City’s Neighborhood Watch – Neighbors Helping Neighbors Committee.
