To help prevent fires:

 1. Clean the lint screen/filter before or after each load of  clothes. If clothing is still damp at the end of a typical drying cycle, this may be a sign that the lint screen or the exhaust duct is blocked.

2. Replace foil accordion-type ducting material with rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct. Most manufacturers specify the use of a rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct, which provides maximum airflow. The flexible plastic type duct can more easily trap lint and is more susceptible to kinks or crushing, which can greatly reduce airflow.

3. Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct every one to three years depending on dryer usage. Check the outside dryer vent while the dryer is operating to make sure exhaust air is escaping.  If it is not, the vent or the exhaust duct may be blocked.

4. Clean behind the dryer where lint can build up.  Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter.

5. Take special care when drying clothes that have been soiled with volatile chemicals such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils and stains. If possible, wash the clothing more than once to minimize the amount of volatile chemicals on the clothes and, preferably, hang the clothes to dry.  If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that has a cool-down period at the end  of the cycle.  To prevent clothes from igniting after drying, do not leave the dried clothes in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket.