According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), clothes dryers cause approximately 12,000 fires a year. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent them.

Mechanical and electrical failure

Like anything with moving parts and electronic components, faulty wiring and damaged machinery can potentially cause dryer fires. For this reason, it is important to have these parts checked and repaired or replaced if necessary.

Improper dryer use

Using a clothes dryer outside of the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines, like over-stuffing the appliance, can result in a fire. The NFPA found that 6% of dryer fires occur when the heat source is too close to combustibles or other flammable materials. In general, items made of plastic, rubber, and foam are not suited for clothes dryers.

Clogged lint filters and vents

This category represents the leading cause of dryer fires. It is also the easiest hazard to manage.

• Clean the lint filter after every load. A dirty lint screen can lead to 30% more energy usage and can be a fire hazard.
• You can also perform deeper cleaning of the lint trap every 6 months or as needed, in which you clean it with a nylon brush, detergent and water to remove any residue from fabric softener or stuck-on lint.
• Occasionally use the attachments on your vacuum cleaner to remove lint that falls off of the lint filter and in the filter enclosure.
• Occasionally clean the duct work that vents your dryer. The filter does not catch all the lint and can build up in the duct work. This build-up decreases the efficiency of your dryer by requiring longer run times and can become a fire hazard.
• Make sure your dryer is vented properly vented to the outdoors and not into a crawlspace or attic. Use the straightest and shortest metal duct available. Flexible vinyl duct is not recommended because it restricts airflow, can be crushed, and may not withstand the dryer’s high temperatures.
• If your dryer has a moisture sensor that shuts off the dryer when the clothes are dry—use it.