Most homes and apartments in central Pennsylvania have a clothes dryer. While many residents don’t think of these machines as a fire risk, 2,900 fires each year across the country are linked to home clothes dryers.
What Causes a Dryer Fire?
There are many things which can cause a dryer fire, such as:
- An accumulation of dryer lint and debris.
- Electrical or mechanical problems.
- Defective hardware.
- Long vent tubes, which get twisted and allow debris and lint to accumulate.
How to Prevent a Dryer Fire
There are several steps you can take to help minimize the risk of a dryer fire:
- Clean out the lint trap after every load of laundry: This task only a few seconds but can significantly reduce the risk of fire.
- Give your dryer a thorough cleaning regularly: Check your dryer’s manual to see how to clean the machine. In general, you will want to access the dryer vent pipes with a vacuum to remove any built-up debris.
- Keep your dryer monitored: Don’t let your dryer run while you’re away from the house. At home, check in on the laundry periodically if you’re in a different room. Make sure your laundry room has a smoke detector installed.
- Get service for your dryer if you notice anything unusual: If you notice a burning smell or any problems with the dryer, call a professional before the situation gets dangerous.
- Install your dryer correctly: Consider installing your dryer in the basement or somewhere where you can vent directly outside. The shorter your dryer vent pipes, the safer. You may also want a professional to install a dryer vent fan, especially if you can’t avoid longer pipes, to prevent lint buildup.
- Follow label instructions: Some materials cannot go through the dryer cycle safely, as they may melt or pose a burn hazard. Materials soaked in alcohol or gasoline also pose a risk.
- Dry clothes at the lowest setting: Dry your clothes at the lowest effective setting and remove them promptly when they’re dry.
What to Do if You Have a Dryer Fire
When a dryer fire happens, immediately call 911 and evacuate the house. Keep the dryer door closed and unplug the machine, if possible. If the fire is very small, you may be able to use a fire extinguisher, but it’s best to evacuate and let firefighters deal with the blaze if there is any doubt.
Dryer fires can flare up quickly because lint acts as kindling, and burning clothes may produce toxic fumes that overwhelm you quickly. In most cases, it’s better to be safe and get out.
If you have a dryer fire, homeowners insurance can protect you. A good policy can help you replace your dryer and fix any damage to your home. If you need to evacuate your home while it undergoes repair, your insurance can even pay for a hotel or other safe place to live.
Do you need a solid insurance policy in central Pennsylvania? Contact Strock Insurance for a quote or reach out to one of our locations with your questions.