INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) is reminding residents to take simple steps to prevent dryer fires, a common but preventable household hazard.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments respond to thousands of home fires involving clothes dryers each year. The leading cause is failure to clean lint buildup—an issue that can be easily addressed with routine maintenance.
Why Dryer Fires Happen
Lint is highly flammable and can accumulate in:
- Lint traps
- Around the dryer drum
- Dryer vents and exhaust ducts
When airflow is restricted, heat builds up—creating conditions that can lead to a fire
Top Dryer Fire Safety Tips
NLTFPD encourages residents to follow these NFPA-recommended safety practices:
Clean the lint filter before or after every load
- Remove lint from the screen and around the drum
Inspect and maintain vents and exhaust systems
- Ensure the outdoor vent flap opens properly and is not blocked (including by snow)
- Clean vent pipes at least annually, or more often if drying times increase
- Consider professional vent cleaning services
Ensure proper installation and equipment use
- Have dryers installed and serviced by a qualified professional
- Make sure dryers are properly grounded
- Use the correct plug and outlet for your unit
- Only use rigid or flexible metal venting material (avoid plastic or foil)
- Ensure the exterior vent flap opens freely and is not blocked (including snow or debris). Flap-style termination instead of a screen—screens trap lint and can accumulate ember-ignitable fuel while also restricting airflow
Use caution with what you dry
- Items exposed to gasoline, paint thinner, cooking oils, or other flammable substances should be dried outside first, then washed and dried as usual
Maintain a safe laundry area
- Keep the area around the dryer clear of combustible materials like boxes, clothing, and cleaning supplies
Operate dryers safely
- Do not overload the dryer
- Follow manufacturer instructions
- Never operate a dryer without a lint filter
- Turn the dryer off before leaving home or going to sleep
Special consideration for gas dryers
- Have gas dryers inspected by a qualified professional to ensure connections are secure and leak-free
Warning Signs to Watch For
Be alert for:
- Clothes taking longer than usual to dry
- A burning smell during operation
- Excess heat in the laundry area
- Visible lint buildup around the dryer or vent
If you notice any of these signs, stop using the dryer and have it inspected immediately.
A Message from NLTFPD
“Dryer fires are largely preventable with routine care and awareness,” said Fire Marshal John James. “Taking a few minutes to clean your lint filter, maintain proper airflow, and ensure your dryer is installed correctly can significantly reduce risk and help prevent a potentially devastating fire. We encourage everyone to make dryer safety part of their regular home maintenance routine.”
Learn More & Stay Informed
For additional guidance on clothes dryer safety, residents can visit resources from the National Fire Protection Association https://www.nfpa.org/downloadable-resources/safety-tip-sheets/clothes-dryer-safety-tip-sheet.
