Warning after tumble drier fire: 5 tips to prevent catastrophe

By Swindon Link - 30 January 2015

Opinion and Features

WILTSHIRE Fire & Rescue Service is reminding people to take care when using domestic appliances.

Letting tumble driers, washing machines or dishwashers run unattended, either overnight or while you’re out of the house, can be dangerous, as fires can easily start if a fault develops and the appliance overheats.

Earlier this week, a family from the Chippenham area had a lucky escape when their tumble drier caught fire after being left to run overnight.

Home fire safety manager Neil Chamberlain explained: “There were no smoke detectors in the property, and it was sheer chance that one of the family had stayed up to play computer games and heard a bang from downstairs.

"He went to investigate, found the tumble drier on fire, and was able to raise the alarm. As a result, no-one was hurt and firefighters were quickly on scene to extinguish the blaze.”

He added: “Domestic appliances are often kept downstairs in a house, so leaving them running when you go to bed creates a real risk that you could be trapped upstairs if a fire were to start. It is also vital to have working smoke detectors, and to test them every week – that way, if the worst does happen, you should be able to raise the alarm and get to safety.”

The Fire & Rescue Service's advice is:

  • Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home.
  • Fit smoke alarms on landings, in hallways, and near bedrooms. They can also be beneficial in rooms with electric heaters or other items of potential risk.
  • Test your smoke alarms regularly by pushing the button – ideally on a weekly basis.
  • Check that your smoke alarms are no more than ten years old, and replace if necessary.
  • Make sure that any elderly or vulnerable relatives or neighbours also have working smoke alarms.

In addition, the Service recommends having carbon monoxide alarms fitted in your home, and these should also be checked regularly.

To see if you qualify for a free home fire safety check from Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service, call 0800 389 7849 or visit www.wiltsfire.gov.uk

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