In 2005, more than 7,500 people across the United States were injured in clothes dryer fires.

Fires which occurred because lint built up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct, flammable items were put in the dryers such as foam-backed rugs or athletic shoes, lack of maintenance, and improper installation like the use of plastic ducts or vinyl and foil venting that collapse when installed. Here's some safety tips to guard against dryer fires.

In 2005, more than 7,500 people across the United States were injured in clothes dryer fires.  Fires which occurred becuse lint built up in the dryer exhaust duct, flammable items were put in the dryers such as foam-backed rugs or athletic shoes, lack of maintenance, and improper installation like the use of plastic ducts or vinyl and foil venting that collapse when installed.

Here is some safety tips to guard against dryer fires:

• Clean the lint filter before and after each load.
• Check the outside exhaust while the dryer is operating to make sure air is escaping normally -- look for kinks or signs of crushing.
• Clean behind the dryer where lint can build up.
• Take special care with drying clothers that have been soiled with volatile chemicals like gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, finishing oils and stains.
• DO NOT LEAVE THE HOUSE WITH DRYER LEFT RUNNING!