Clothes dryers a fire hazard if not used properly
THAT toasty warm towel feeling in winter may be costing many homeowners their house, with clothes dryers revealed as one of the leading causes of domestic fires.
Australia’s fire services including Fire and Rescue NSW, Rural Fire Service Queensland, Country Fire Authority Victoria and SA Metropolitan Fire Service concur on several precautions and safety measures that should be taken when using a clothes dryer.
QBE Insurance lists incorrect use of tumble dryers as its top risk factor for major domestic blazes, with fire claims typically spiking by 33 per cent on average in winter.
Metropolitan Fire Service community engagement officer Angelo Mastripolito says a few routine checks and actions, however, can significantly reduce the risk.
● Never leave the clothes dryer running while no one is at home. But if a fire does occur while at home, get out, stay out and call triple-0.
● Clean the lint filter before every load. It is also recommended to clean it after each load as well.
● Ensure there is adequate air flow for ventilation around the dryer.
● Never turn the dryer off before the cool-down period is over. Fires can start from clothing being left bunched up while still hot inside the dryer.
● Remove dried clothing before turning it off.
● Do not put dry clothes that have not been washed into the dryer. Unwashed clothes have a great buildup of contaminants, especially oils and grease, and lint from these clothes is more combustible and can ignite when hot.
● Never use the dryer for drying clothes or other cloths used to absorb flammable liquids or oils. Clothes that have been worn while using oils and sprays should be washed in hot water and detergent to remove them, before putting them in a dryer.