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Are your clothes taking too long to dry?
Posted On: 04/15/2009 18:07:48
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ARE YOUR CLOTHES TAKING TOO LONG TO DRY?
People who think it's normal for their dryer to take multiple cycles to dry one load of clothing don't realize this is a dryer vent clog warning sign and a fire hazard.
John Ryley, president of Dryer Vent Wizard based in Miller Place, says October is fire prevention month and Dryer Vent Wizard is joining the National Fire Protection Association by launching the “Don't let Your Dryer Start a Fire Keep Your Home Safe and Sound” campaign.
During this month, consumers will be encouraged to visit the Dryer Vent Wizard, Dry Clothes, Safe Homes, Fire Prevention website section, " Don't Let Your Dryer Start a Fire, Keep Your Home Safe and Sound," to become informed of the dangers that lurk in the laundry room, receive a free dryer vent check kit and downloadable "Tips" brochure.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryer fires account for an average of 15,000 fires with an approximate $88 Million in property damage, 15 deaths and 400 injuries annually. "Failure to clean" was citied as the leading factor contributing to clothes dryer fires in residential buildings.
Mr. Ryley offers these tips on keeping your home safe.
-- Be sure that dryer vent systems are up to code with city, state and
manufacturer.
-- Replace any plastic or foil vent with semi-rigid or solid metal
venting.
-- Clean screen lint trays before and after drying a load.
-- Wash lint screens with soap and water every few months to remove
residue left behind by fabric softeners.
-- Have dryer vents professionally cleaned and inspected annually.
-- Don't keep combustibles like chemical cleaning products or chemical
laden rags near dryers.
Warning signs to look for:
-- Clothes are taking more than one cycle to dry, especially jeans and
towels.
-- No lint visible on lint screen.
-- Dryer repeatedly stops during a cycle.
-- Clothes have moldy smell after dry cycle.
To receive a free dryer vent check kit, downloadable "Tips" brochure or request a DVW spokesperson to speak at community events, visit www.dryerventwizard.com and click on "Fire Prevention Month," or call 877 498-SAFE, 7233.
Mr. Ryley can be reached at 631-744-1552
Tags: Clothes Dry Dryer Fire Clothing Fire
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