HOW TO PREVENT DRYER FIRES

The Byram Fire Department responds to several dryer-related fires each year. Some of these fires occur when lint builds up in the filter or in the exhaust duct. Under certain conditions, when lint blocks the flow of air, excessive heat buildup may cause a fire in some dryers. To prevent clothes dryer-caused fires:

·         Clean the lint filter regularly and make sure the dryer is operating properly. Clean the filter after each load of clothes. While the dryer is operating, check the outside exhaust to make sure exhaust air is escaping normally. If it is not, look inside both ends of the duct and remove any lint. If there are any signs that the dryer is hotter than normal, it may be a sign that the dryer's temperature control thermostat needs servicing.

·         Check the exhaust duct more often if you have a plastic, flexible duct. This type of duct is more likely to trap lint than an exhaust duct without ridges

·         Closely follow the manufacturer's instructions for new installations. Most manufacturer's that get their clothes dryers approved by Underwriters Laboratories specify the use of metal exhaust ducts. If metal ducts are not available at the retailer where the dryer was purchased, check other locations, such as hardware or builder supply stores. If you are having the dryer installed, insist upon metal ducts unless the installer has verified that the manufacturer permits the use of plastic ducts.