Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Dunmere Road, Bodmin at 28/01/2017 10:09

On receipt of this call appliances from Bodmin and Wadebridge were mobilised, on arrival there was found to be a fire involving a tumble dryer in an external building, firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a high pressure hosereel to extinguish the fire, crews also proceeded to check the roof space of the building by cutting away and checking for fire spread, small tools, triple extension ladder and the thermal imaging camera was used, when all was pronounced clear , the positive pressure fan was used to ventilate the property.

Tumble dryers and washing machines contain powerful motors with fast moving parts that get very hot. If you do not clean and maintain your machine, excess fluff or lint can build up over time and catch fire.

Remember to:
• Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your dryer
• Never leave your appliance unattended or running overnight
• Never overload your washing machine or dryer or put items in that have been used to soak up flammable liquids
• Keep your dryer well ventilated ensuring the vent pipe is kink free, not blocked or crushed in any way
• Clean the filter in your dryer after every use
• Have your dryer serviced regularly by a qualified engineer
• Don't ignore the warning signs
• Does your tumble dryer smell of burning?
• Are your clothes taking longer to dry?
• Do the clothes feel hotter at the end of the cycle?
• Does the external vent flap stay shut when the dryer is on?
• If you notice any of the above, clean the filter and check the vent pipe immediately.

For more information including the latest on tumble dryer recalls visit:

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