Keep your home safe from dryer fires

Laundry is part of everyday life, so it’s important to clean the dryer lint filter after each use to help your appliance run efficiently and reduce the risk of a fire.

Follow these steps from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Service to prevent your laundry from becoming a fire hazard: 

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional and ensure it is properly grounded.

• Never operate a dryer without a lint filter. 

• Clean the lint filter before or after each use – lint buildup can be a fire hazard. 

• Once a year, clean lint out of the vent pipe. Do it more often if you notice it’s taking longer than normal to dry your clothes.

• Make sure the exhaust vent is not blocked and the flaps can open.

• Line-dry materials that had chemicals, oils or gasoline on them. Even after washing, these flammable substances can start a fire in the dryer.

• Don’t put natural or synthetic rubber, rubber-coated sneakers, foam pillows or any clothing with foam padding in the dryer.

• Avoid overloading your laundry machines – follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Don’t store clothing or combustible items on or around the washer or dryer. This could spread a fire faster.

• Don’t operate your dryer while you’re out of the house or sleeping. 

• If a fire starts inside the dryer, don’t open the door. Leave your home and call 9-1-1.

For more fire prevention and safety tips, visit vaughan.ca/fire. 

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