Clothing Dryer Safety

The leading cause of clothing dryer fires is failure to clean them.

Did you know how important taking care of your clothing dryer is to the safety of your home? With a few simple safety tips, you can help prevent a clothing dryer fire.

Safety Tips

• Clean the lint filter/trap after every load. 
• Clean any lint that may build up around the drum of the dryer. 
• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. At least once a year (or if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry), clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that 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.
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer.
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.
• In the event a fire does occur, keep the dryer door closed. Get outside and call 911. 

Regular Maintenance and Care

• Clear snow and other debris away from all outdoor vents.
• Dryers should be properly grounded.
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing, etc.
• Clothes that have come in contact with flammable substances, like gasoline, paint thinner, or similar solvents should be laid outside to dry, then can be washed and dried as usual.
• Plug the dryer directly into the wall outlet. Never use extension cords or power bars as the source of power.