There Could be Danger Lurking in Your Laundry Room

Most of us never think very much about the condition of our washer and dryer until something goes wrong. We believe they will always be dependable… and safe. Have you ever stopped to consider that your clothes dryer might be a serious fire hazard? The U. S. Fire Administration (USFA)   (a division of FEMA) reports that close to 100 injuries, five deaths and about $35 million in property loss result from an estimated 2,900 clothes dryer fires occurring in homes each year.

The USFA’s report also tells us that clothes dryer fires appear to happen more frequently in winter months. They have found that the main cause of such fires is the failure to thoroughly clear lint and fibers from the dryer, mostly because the lint that is not caught by the filter which settles around the exhaust pipe or the heating element where it can ignite.

Good News: You Can Prevent Dryer Fires

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has made available their Clothes Dryer Safety Tip Sheet to make your dryer safer. Some of these very important tips are as follows.

• Always use a lint filter when operating the dryer.
• Do not leave the dryer operating when you go to bed or if you leave home.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
• Test the outdoor vent flap to see that it opens when the dryer is operating, and be sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted at any time.
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions, and don’t overload your dryer.

Homeowners Insurance Tip

Home fires – no matter the reason – can be a devastating threat to life and property. Be sure your home is properly protected by your homeowners insurance. If you are not sure about your coverage, now is the time to arrange a meeting with your insurance agent for a policy review.

Contact our experienced agents here at the William M. Sparks Insurance Agency to review your home owners insurance policy to be sure you have complete coverage to meet your needs at the best rate available.