Safety Column

by Eloy Gomez

safety/emergency coordinator

Every year, firefighters across the U.S. respond to approximately 15,050 home fires caused by dryers.

The leading cause of homedryer fires is failure to clean them, according to Orange County Fire Authority.

Fires can occur if there is a build-up of lint in the dryer or the exhaust duct.

Lint can block the flow of air, which can cause excessive heat build-up, resulting in fire.

Dryer Safety Tips

• Keep your dryer in good working condition.

• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions for your dryer.

• Keep the dryer area clear of all combustibles.

• Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with a rigid, nonribbed metal duct. This provides maximum air flow and reduces fire risk.

• Make sure your dryer’s air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and that the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is operating.

Things to Remember

• Do not use a dryer that doesn’t have a lint filter.

• Clean the lint filter before or after drying each load of laundry. Be sure to clean behind the dryer where lint can build up.

• If laundry is still damp at the end of the drying cycle, or if drying requires a longer time than normal, this may be a sign that the lint filter or exhaust duct is blocked.

• Don’t dry items that have come in contact with anything flammable such as alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline.

Dry these items outdoors or in a well-ventilated area away from heat.

• Never overload your dryer.

• Turn your dryer off if you leave your house or when you go to bed.

• If you plan to be away from home for a long period of time, unplug or disconnect your dryer.

Dryer exhaust vents should be inspected and cleaned at least once per year.

If your dryer is in need of service, you may contact Service Maintenance at (562) 431-6586, ext. 363, and request a dryer vent cleaning service.