Recent Tumble Dryer Fires Prompt Safety Warnings

There have been several recent fires in some of our residents’ homes involving tumble dryers.

These incidents have raised safety concerns and prompted warnings from fire safety experts, including our Fire Safety Manager Martin Mellor.

The fires have led to significant property damage and put lives at risk, highlighting the importance of proper appliance maintenance and safety precautions.

Reinforcing the Fire Safety at Home advice of Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, Martin is prompting residents to take immediate steps to ensure their tumble dryers are safe to use.

Key recommendations include regularly cleaning the lint filter, ensuring proper ventilation, and not leaving dryers running unattended, especially overnight or when leaving the house.

For more detailed advice on how to prevent tumble dryer fires and to learn about the necessary safety measures, read Martin’s tips below and visit Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service website or contact them directly. They offer valuable resources and guidance to help keep your home and family safe.

Advice from our Fire Safety Manager,  Martin 

Tumble dryers are generally safe to use, but if not maintained regularly they can pose a significant fire hazard. 

According to fire safety experts, thousands of tumble dryer fires occur each year – many of which were preventable.

Do:

·        Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your dryer.

·        Clean the filter after every use to prevent fluff from building up and catching fire.

·        Make sure the dryer is in a well-ventilated room with nothing placed against it.

·       If you have a vented tumble dryer, ensure the vent pipe is properly fitted, not kinked, crushed, or damaged, and vents outside.

·       If you have a condensing dryer, ensure you regularly empty the water from the removable container or reservoir.

Don’t:

·       overload electrical sockets. Tumble dryers need their own 13-amp socket because they use a lot of power. Check for any scorch marks or visible wires that might indicate a problem.

·       leave any appliance running unattended or overnight.  If something goes wrong, you’ll be there to react quickly, which can prevent or lessen a fire.

·       overload your tumble-dryer A half-load of clothing will dry faster because the heat can circulate freely. An overloaded dryer can get dangerously hot.

Product recalls

From time to time, tumble dryers are recalled by the manufacturer due to instances of fire reported. By registering your appliances, you make it easier for manufacturers to notify you should it get recalled. This will guarantee that you’re informed of any important safety information relating to your appliance.

Go to Product Recalls & Safety Notices | Electrical Safety First if you want to check your model for recalls. 

Remember to test your smoke alarms at least once a month and in the event of a fire call 999 immediately and evacuate the property.