Every year, 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported, resulting in approximately 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and causing $35 million in property damage.
Failure to clean the dryer is the leading cause of these fires, which accounts for 34% of incidents.
Dryer fires are more common in fall and winter, peaking in January.
Fire Safety Outreach Materials
The primary cause of home clothes dryer fires is a lack of cleaning. You can help spread awareness in your community about these preventable fires with these important safety messages and free outreach resources.
Clothes Dryer Fire Safety Messages
Residents must understand how to protect themselves and their homes from dryer fires. Use the fire safety messages below to educate others about staying safe.
Clothes Dryer Do’s
Installation
Always have your clothes dryer installed by a professional.
Ensure the correct electrical plug and outlet are used, and the dryer is connected correctly.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and warnings in the dryer’s use and care manual.
Cleaning
Clean the lint filter before and after every load of laundry. Moreover, clean behind the dryer, where lint often builds up.
Clean the lint filter with a nylon brush at least every six months or more frequently if it is clogged.
Clear lint from the vent pipe every three months.
If clothes take longer than usual to dry, professionally clean your dryer.
Maintenance
Inspect the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it’s not restricted or damaged.
Cover exterior wall dampers to protect against rain, snow, and debris.
Confirm the outdoor vent covering opens freely when the dryer is in use.
Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with rigid metal ducting for improved safety.
Schedule annual inspections for gas-powered dryers to ensure the gas line and connections are intact and leak-free.
Regularly check for animal or insect nests blocking the outdoor vent.
Keep the area around the dryer clear of flammable materials.
If you’re leaving home for an extended period, unplug or disconnect the dryer.
Clothes Dryer Don’ts
Don’t use a dryer without a lint filter or a lint filter that is damaged, loose, or clogged.
Don’t overload the dryer.
Don’t use wire screens or cloth to cover wall dampers; they can collect lint and block the vent.
Avoid drying items containing foam, rubber, or plastic, such as bathroom rugs with rubber backings.
Don’t dry items labeled “dry away from heat” unless the manufacturer’s instructions allow it.
Avoid drying glass fiber materials unless specified by the manufacturer.
Never dry items exposed to flammable substances such as alcohol, gasoline, or cooking oils. Dry these items outdoors or in a well-ventilated space away from heat.
Don’t leave a dryer running while you’re away from home or sleeping.
Outreach Materials From Other Organizations
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as a trusted source for outreach materials on clothes dryer fire safety.
The NFPA provides essential tips to help prevent dryer fires through its Clothes Dryer Safety resource. As a leader in fire prevention, the NFPA plays a crucial role in reducing fire risks by developing codes and standards and offering education, research, and training.
Sharing this resource can help keep your community informed and protected from preventable dryer fires.
