The National Fire Protection Association reports that there are approximately 15,000 home fires caused by clothes dryers.
Here at the Bay District Volunteer Fire Department, we are seeing an uptick of this type of fire. Now we don’t mind coming to your house with our shiny yellow and white fire trucks, heck, we even allow some of those red ones to tag along.
To prevent our visit, all it takes is to clean the dryer filter before or after each load of clothes are dried. Additionally, at least annually clean the interior of the dryer hose that goes to the vent on the outside of your house. Don’t forget to check that the exterior vent is functioning properly.
Are all of the vanes open when the dryer is running and do they close when the dryer is off. Perform these simple preventive maintenance tips and you should avoid all the commotion and attention you will receive with those fire trucks visiting your house.
On Thursday, February 24, 2022, at approximately 2:30 p.m., firefighters responded to the 45000 block of Indian Way in Lexington Park, for the reported structure fire.
Crews arrived on the scene to find nothing evident from a 2-story apartment building, and upon further investigation, crews found a small fire near the dryer.
No injuries were reported.
On Saturday, February 26, 2022, at approximately 3:33 p.m., firefighters responded to the 23000 block of Mountain Laurel Lane in California, for the reported structure fire.
Crews arrived on the scene to find a 3-story residence with nothing evident, and upon further investigation, firefighters found a smoke coming from the dryer.
8 children and 1 adult was displaced, the American Red Cross was requested to assist.
On Sunday, February 27, 2022, at approximately 4:45 p.m., firefighters to the 21400 block of Lynn Drive in Lexington Park, for the reported house on fire with animals trapped.
Crews from Bay District arrived on the scene to find smoke showing from a 1-story residence. Firefighters made entry and found an active fire.
The American Red Cross was requested for 1 adult, 3 children, and 2 dogs displaced by the fire.
