Clothes dryers are a common household appliance, but they also present a significant fire risk when not properly maintained. Safety professionals estimate that each year clothes dryers are associated with more than 15,000 fires, resulting in over 20 deaths and more than 370 injuries nationwide. The leading cause of these fires is the accumulation of lint in the dryer, vent, or exhaust duct.

Lint is highly combustible. When it restricts airflow, heat can build up inside the dryer or vent system, increasing the potential for ignition.

Fire Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of dryer-related fires, follow these safety guidelines:

Clean the Lint Screen After Every Load

• Remove lint from the screen or filter before or after each drying cycle.

• If clothes remain damp at the end of a normal cycle or drying times increase, this may indicate a blocked lint screen or exhaust duct.

• Periodically wash the lint screen with water and a soft brush to remove residue from dryer sheets and fabric softeners.

Inspect and Clean the Vent System

• Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct on a regular basis.

• While the dryer is operating, check the outside vent to confirm that exhaust air is flowing freely.

• If airflow is weak or absent, the vent or duct may be blocked.

• Disconnect and clean the exhaust duct if necessary, and ensure it is securely reconnected before operating the dryer again.

Maintain the Area Around the Dryer

• Clean behind and underneath the dryer where lint can accumulate.

• Keep the area free of combustible materials such as boxes, clothing, or cleaning supplies.

• Have a qualified service technician periodically inspect and clean the interior dryer components to reduce lint buildup inside the chassis.

Use Proper Venting Materials

• Replace plastic or foil accordion-style ducting with rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal ductwork.

• Metal ducts provide better airflow and are less likely to trap lint or become crushed.

• Follow the manufacturer’s installation recommendations to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Exercise Caution with Contaminated Clothing

Clothing contaminated with volatile substances such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils requires special care:

• Wash items more than once to remove flammable residues.

• When possible, air-dry these items instead of using a dryer.

• If machine drying is necessary, use the lowest heat setting and select a cycle with a cool-down period.

• Do not leave dried items in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket, as retained heat can contribute to ignition.

Community Risk Reduction Message

Routine maintenance and awareness are the most effective tools for preventing dryer fires. Incorporating dryer safety into home fire safety education programs can significantly reduce preventable residential incidents. Departments are encouraged to include dryer maintenance tips in seasonal fire prevention campaigns and community outreach initiatives.

For additional fire safety information or questions about residential fire prevention, contact your local fire department’s community risk reduction division.