Rise in tumble dryer fires prompts call to action by firefighters

Firefighters have attended 43 fires involving tumble dryers

Residents are being asked to check household appliances for recalled items following a rise in fires involving tumble dryers in Greater Manchester.

Since January this year, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has attended 43 fires involving tumble dryers in Greater Manchester– an increase of 11 from the same period in 2015. Not all of these involved recalled items, however, at least eight incidents since the start of 2016 have done so.

A number of appliances have appeared on recalled lists in recent months, including items from Hotpoint, Indesit, Creda, Swan and Proline tumble dryers.

Chairman of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority, Councillor David Acton, said: “Tumble dryers have been around for a long time and used safely they can be a useful addition to your household. However, if fluff is allowed to accumulate in the filter, near blocked vents, and at the rear of your dryer you increase the risk of this fluff catching fire from the heat created by the dryer.

“Following the recent spike in tumble dryer fires in Greater Manchester we want to urge people to check their appliances against the Electrical Safety Council’s recalled products list and follow our safety advice, which includes removing lint regularly, not covering the vent and vacuuming areas around the dryer to prevent build-up of fluff.

“In the event of a fire breaking out at your home, smoke alarms can buy valuable time, and we advise that every household has at least one working alarm. Book a free Safe and Well visit now by calling 0800 555 815 or visiting www.manchesterfire.gov.uk.”