By Lorie Ham
Recently Mennonite Insurance had a claim where the dryer in someone’s home caught on fire because of lint, to prevent that from happening to you we wanted to share some safety tips. To make sure these tips are top notch, we chatted with Reedley Fire Department Battalion Chief Justin Watson.
How does lint in a dryer cause a fire?
Chief Watson: Buildup of lint or other fibers in the unit. Usually in the lint trap or exhaust line. This obstructs airflow and causes overheating.
What can we do to prevent that kind of fire?
Chief Watson: Clean and or service the unit before each cycle or operation.
What are the most common causes of fire in a dryer?
Chief Watson: Lint build up obstructing air flow creating excessive heat, and overheating of dryer motor or heating element.
What all can we do to prevent that?
Chief Watson: Clean and inspect unit lint trap, exhaust line, and areas around unit motor. Insure no leaks or openings are in exhaust line.
Anything you would like to add?
Chief Watson: Inspect exit location of exhaust line for leaks, lint build up, improperly stored items, or vegetation and leaves. Have a professional service technician inspect unit. If you notice the unit isn’t drying sufficiently or is over heating do not use until it has been repaired. Maintain adequate clearance around the unit to allow airflow for cooling. Never leave a unit in operation when nobody is home. Additionally if unit is gas heated don’t use if you suspect a leak or smell a strong odor of gas.
For more dryer safety tips, you can check out this article at Compact Appliance. It is also wise to check with your Mennonite Insurance agent to see what kind of coverage you have in the event this or any other type of damage happens to your home.
