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.