Use metal dryer vent hose/duct. Use either flexible or rigid duct that is intended for clothes dryers. Try to avoid sharp bents and long runs where lint might accumulate. Do not use plastic hose.

 Follow manufactures instructions for temperature settings and time setting for various types of fabrics and materials to be dried.

 Clean lint from the dryer screen (trap) before or after each use.

 Clean lint from the duct (vent hose) that carries air from the dryer to outdoors. This should be done once or twice per year. Clean the dryer port, inside of the vent duct, and vent opening or louvered flap outside of the house. This will require moving the dryer. For gas fired dryers the gas supply will need to be properly shut off and carefully disconnected in accordance with manufacturer instructions. A professional qualified service provider may be needed!

 Be sure that gas connections are correct and periodically inspected by a professional.

 Keep the area around and over the dryer free and clear of combustible materials, such as storage and laundry. This will help prevent spread of fire in the event a small fire occurs.

 Do not dry clothes or rags that might be susceptible to spontaneous combustion. Materials that are typically subject to spontaneous combustion under certain conditions are animal fats, and some vegetable oils that are mixed with some laundry products. Dry suspected items by hanging or laying flat in open-air outdoors.

 Don’t leave home when a dryer is in operation.

More Information: Shelton Fire Marshals Office at 924-1555, CPSC website above or US Fire Administration website: www.usfa.fema.gov