Firefighters are warning people never to leave tumble dryers switched on unattended and to look carefully at where they are situated after a dryer set fire to a shed in Stone.
Both fire engines from Stone community fire station attended the incident at Meadow Court at around 7.30pm on Tuesday evening. The fire started in the tumble dryer’s exhaust port. Crews used two hose reel jets and wore two breathing apparatus to tackle the blaze. They left the scene at 8.35pm.
Station manager Andy Kinsman, who led the incident, said: “I cannot stress strongly enough the importance of never leaving a tumble dryer switched on unattended. Lint can build up in the machine and filters which makes it extremely easy for the machine to catch fire. It is important for people to check their tumble dryer thoroughly before using it and remove any bits of fluff in the filter, cleaning it regularly. We have in Staffordshire experienced an increase in fires involving tumble dryers.
“If a tumble dryer is stored in a shed or outhouse it is vital to ensure that all paints, solvents and garden chemicals are stored safely away from any heat source in order to prevent them contributing to increased fire conditions. The storage of BBQ gas has the potential of causing more catastrophic results when involved in fire as they can rupture causing a fire ball and projectiles from the cylinder casing. These simple steps can keep you, your family and our firefighters safe.”
The householder took to the Little Bit of Stone Facebook page on Tuesday night to thank the fire service. She said: “Just wanted to say a huge thanks to the Fire Brigade who came to my house tonight and dealt with fire in my shed. They were here so quickly and were absolutely great.”
