In the U.S. each year, about 15,000-17,000 household fires are caused by clothes dryers. Be safe! Here are some tips for safe dryer operation.
1. Clean your lint trap each time you use your dryer. Lint build-up in the vent and exhaust pipe can cause high heat build up and is one of the leading causes of dryer fires. Good air flow will make your clothes dry quicker and will use less energy.
2. Periodically clean your lint trap screen with soap and a brush (such as an old toothbrush) to remove build-up from dryer sheets.
3. Metal vents are safer than plastic or foil ones because they don't sag leaving areas for lint to build up.
4. Do not leave the dryer running when you leave the house.
5. Keep the area around the dryer free of flammable materials.
6. Never put anything in the dryer that has any flammable or combustible liquid on it such as gasoline, nail polish remover, wax, or cooking oils.