The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPCS) estimates that 15,500 fires associated with dryer fires each year. These fires account for more than $84.4 million in property damage annually. Clothes dryers can be a fire hazard if proper care and precautions are not taken. Follow these safety tips to prevent a fire in your home dryer:
Follow the manufacturer's operating instructions and don't overload your dryer.
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.
Check to make sure nests of small animals or insects are not blocking the outside vent.
Keep the area around the clothes dryer free of items that can burn.
Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.
Always use the appropriate electrical outlet for dryers and all major appliances.
Don't forget to read the manufacturer warnings in the user manual and on the inside of the dryer door.
Have gas-powered dryers inspected by a professional annually to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.