Five Safety Tips to Prevent a Dryer Fire

6/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Breckinridge, Grayson, Meade & Hancock Counties

A clothes dryer is a common and convenient household appliance, but it can be dangerous if not properly maintained. Not only can the dryer break and need replacing, but it can also cause a lint fire in your Kentucky home. Follow these safety tips to help prevent any emergency situations.

1. Have Your Dryer Professionally Installed
   Having your dryer installed by a qualified professional can put you on the right path to keeping your home safe. They can make sure that everything is installed correctly and working as it should, preventing any potential safety hazards.
2. Clean the Lint Filter and Dryer Vent Regularly
   The most common cause of a dryer fireis not keeping the unit clean. You should remove lint from the filter before and after each use. Lint can also build up in the back of the dryer, so be sure to clean that area as well. The dryer vent should be cleaned at least every three months to prevent blockages.
3. Have the Dryer Serviced Regularly.
   It is a good idea to have your dryer serviced on a regular basis. Hiring a professional to clean and inspect the appliance at least once a year can help minimize any problems and keep the unit safe to use.
4. Keep Flammable Items Away From the Dryer
   A lint fire is not the only kind of firethat can occur when using your dryer. If a flammable liquid has been spilled on an item, you should never put it in the dryer. Be sure to keep any flammable materials away from the surrounding area as well.
5. Make Sure the Dryer is Off Before You Leave the House
   If you are leaving your house or going to sleep, make sure that you turn the dryer off beforehand. If a fire were to start while the unit was unattended, it could spread and cause a lot of damagebefore you were aware of it.
   You can hire fire remediation specialists to help in case of a lint fire, but keeping your dryer cleaned and properly maintained can help keep your unit safe.