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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Dryers can be dangerous

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Fire- Dryers can be dangerous.

Doing laundry seems like one of the safest tasks you would complete in your home, right? Unfortunately, that may not be the case. Clothes dryers are the cause of over 20,000 house fires each year! Regular maintenance and cleaning could protect your family and your home.  Here are some dryer safety tips from SERVPRO® of Charles County and SERVPRO® of Oxon Hill.

  • Clean your lint trap before each use

Did you know that lint build up is combustible? Lint causes fires! Cleaning the lint trap is one of the easiest things you can do, simply remove the screen and wipe lint from the screen and surrounding edges. There is also a dryer lint brush that will allow you to reach areas you cannot reach by hand.

  • Clean Dryer Vents

At least once a year it is recommended to have your dryer vents cleaned. Cleaning your dryer vent includes cleaning the exhaust vents and all hoses. If you still have a white or silver vinyl duct hose replace it immediately as they are flammable. SERVPRO® of Charles County and SERVPRO® of Oxon Hill does provide dryer vent cleanings along with duct cleanings. 

  • Understand how to safely use your dryer

If your clothing has gasoline, oil or any other dangerous materials make sure to wash clothing well before putting in the dryer. Dangerous materials are combustible even with the slightest heat. Be aware of the materials you are storing near the dryer. Never leave dryer running when no one is home.

  • Make sure your dryer is installed correctly

When installing or having your dryer installed you should always make sure that the dryer vent runs OUTSIDE. Dryer vents should never vent inside your home or attic. A dryers exhaust duct should not exceed 25 feet from the dryer location. The electrical outlet used to power your dryer should be a 220v grounded electrical outlet. A professional should be completing the install for gas dryers.

SERVPRO® of Charles County and SERVPRO® of Oxon Hill are always Here to Help! You can call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week @ 301.753.8313 or 301.292.4447.

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