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On- and off-base clothes dryer safety
Doing laundry is part of everyday life, but a dryer can become a fire hazard if it is not used and maintained properly. Taking a few minutes to clean your dryer and keep the area around it clear can help prevent fires, protect your home, and keep the appliance working efficiently.
Know your dryer type
Your home may have one of the following dryer types:
Condensing dryer
Empty the water container after every drying cycle.
Do not drink the collected water or allow pets to drink it. It is not safe for consumption.
Condensing dryers work best in cooler areas. Open a window slightly while the dryer is running to improve air circulation.
Vented dryer
Check and clean the flexible vent hose behind the dryer at least once each month. Remove any lint buildup.
Check the outside exhaust flap to make sure it opens freely and is not blocked by lint, debris, snow, or other obstructions.
Simple steps that prevent dryer fires
Clean the lint screen every time. Remove lint before or after every load.
Do not overload the dryer. Clothes need room to tumble and dry properly.
Keep the area around the dryer clear. Do not store boxes, laundry, paper, or cleaning chemicals near the appliance.
Never dry plastic items.
Use caution with flammable materials. Clothing exposed to gasoline, oil, solvents, or similar materials must be completely air-dried outdoors before it is washed or placed in a dryer.
Do not leave the dryer running unattended. Turn it off before leaving home or going to sleep.
Maintenance and repairs
On-base residents:
If clothes are taking longer than normal to dry and cleaning the lint screen does not fix the problem, contact Family Housing Maintenance at 06371-463-9510. This number can also be used to request or schedule annual dryer-vent duct service.
Off-base residents with government-issued appliances:
For appliance problems in economy quarters, contact the Furnishings Management Section (FMS) Appliance Repair at 0631-536-6622 or 0631-536-6624, DSN: 489-6622 or 489-6624.
Why it matters
Lint buildup is a leading cause of dryer-related home fires. Cleaning the lint screen takes only a few seconds, but it can help protect your family, neighbors, home and property.
