Home Safety
Dryer and Washing Machine Safety
Dryer and washing machines were involved in one out of every twenty-five home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments in 1999-2002.
Facts and Figures
- Dryers and washing machines were involved in an average of 13,300 home structure fires per year between 1999 and 2002. These fires causedan average of10 deaths, 280 injuries and $97 million in direct property damage per year.
- Clothes dryers and washing machines were involved in 4% of the home structure firesreportedbetween 1999 and 2002.
- Clothes dryers accounted for 93% of the fires; washing machines 4%, and washer and dryer combinations accounted for 3%.
- The leading cause of home clothes dryer and washer fires was failure to clean (30%), followed by unclassified mechanical failure or malfunction (19%). Sixteen percent were caused by some type of electrical failure or short circuit.
- Almost one third (31%) of these fires started with the ignition of clothing. In one quarter (24%), dust, fiber, or lint was the first item ignited.
Safety Tips
- Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter. Clean lint filters before or after each use and remove accumulated lint from around the drum.
- Make sure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet suitable for its electrical needs as overloaded electrical outlets can result in blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
- Turn the dryer off when leaving the home.
- Keep the dryer area clear of combustibles (i.e., boxes or clothing).
- Dryers should be installed and serviced by a professional.
- Have gas-powered dryers inspected by a professional regularly to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact.
