Prevent Clothes Dryer Fires

Facts about home clothes dryer fires

• 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.

• Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires.

• More home clothes dryer fires occur in the fall and winter months, peaking in January.

The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is failure to clean them. Help increase awareness about clothes dryer fires in your community with these messages and free materials.

lothes dryer fire safety messages

It is important for community residents to know how to keep themselves safe from fire. Use the following fire safety messages to teach people about clothes dryer fire safety.

Clothes dryer do’s

Installation

• Have your clothes dryer installed by a professional.

• Make sure the correct electrical plug and outlet are used and that the dryer is connected properly.

• Read manufacturers' instructions and warnings in use and care manuals that come with new dryers.

Cleaning

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up. In addition, clean the lint filter with a nylon brush at least every six months or more often if it becomes clogged.

• Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months.

• Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional, especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

Maintenance