Important Fire Safety Warning – Tumble Dryers

Humberside Fire and Rescue team have recently attended several house fires caused by tumble dryers. These types of appliances contain powerful motors with fast-moving parts that generate heat, making proper maintenance essential to prevent fire risks.

To keep your home and family safe, please follow these key safety tips:

• Clean the lint filter after every load to prevent dangerous build-up.
• Ensure proper ventilation – the vent pipe should be free from kinks, blockages, or crushing.
• Only use manufacturer-approved vent pipes and make sure the warm air is vented outside.
• Never overload your dryer.
• Never dry rags and materials that have been used to soak up flammable liquids.
• Follow manufacturer instructions and never leave your dryer running unattended or overnight.

Warning Signs of Poor Ventilation:

• Clothes taking longer than usual to dry, especially heavy items like towels or jeans.
• Clothes feeling hotter than normal at the end of the cycle.
• The external vent flap staying shut when the dryer is on.
• A burning smell coming from the machine.

If you notice any of these signs, clean the filter and check the vent pipe immediately. They also recommend having your dryer regularly serviced by a qualified engineer.

Also, make sure you have working smoke alarms on every floor of your home. Test them regularly by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds and is consistent.