RFD urges dryer safety

Some of the most common household fire risks are familiar to most everyone – unattended stove burners and electric heaters, for example. But there’s another appliance that can easily cause a fire without proper maintenance: the clothes dryer.

One of the most important aspects of clothes dryer safety is proper installation. The Russellville Fire Department encourages homeowners to have dryers professionally-installed to make sure they are properly grounded and exhaust vent pipes and flaps are operating as they should.

Here are a few other maintenance tips from the RFD to keep in mind to avoid potential fire hazards:

• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter, and check the filter before and after each cycle.
• Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer, where lint can build up.
• Regularly check the venting system to ensure it is not damaged, crushed or restricted.
• Make sure the appropriate plug and outlet are used to power the machine.
• Follow manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload the dryer.
• When leaving home or going to bed, do not leave the dryer on.