The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), a division of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Association has just released a report titled Clothes Dryer Fires in Residential Buildings (2008-2010). The findings showcase data collected by the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS). Contained data highlights the truth behind the fiery headline news of many home fires: the laundry room, if not maintained, could harm your home and family. Preventive maintenance of the clothes dryer is key to lowering your risk of a fire in the home.
Home Dryer Fire Facts
- 2,900 clothes dryer fires occur each year (on average).
- 5 deaths a year are caused by residential clothes dryer fires.
- 100 Injuries a year are caused by clothes dryer fires.
- 35 Million in property is caused by residential dryer fires.
- Dryer fires peak, usually, in January. A higher incidence of these fires occur in the fall and winter.
- Failure to clean the dryer was the cause of 34% of clothes dryer fires.
- Lint, fiber and dust were attributed as the ignition source in 28% of home dryer fires.
- Clothing ranked second as a source contributor of ignition at 27%.
- In 54% of the clothes dryer fire incidents, the fire was contained to the dryer.
Spare your family, home and wallet the disaster of a home fire caused by a dryer. Safe Laundry Tip: read more about how to maintain your clothes dryer and dryer vent to maximize your energy savings. Home dryer fires are preventable.