[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dryer Fire Caused by Blocked Vent Pipe

[Press Releases]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Battalion Chief Steven Sapp
Columbia Fire Department
(573)-874-7557 Office
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Dryer Fire Caused by Blocked Vent Pipe

COLUMBIA, MO (June 13, 2011) - Columbia MO - Columbia Firefighters were dispatched to a report of a residential structure fire  on Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 10:47 PM at 1528 Citadel.

Fire fighters arrived to find light smoke in the home which was occupied by two adults and three children. A small fire was discovered in the dryer drum as well as the dryer vent pipe.

Residents discovered the fire moments before the smoke alarms sounded. 

The fire was quickly extinguished with damaged contained to the dryer and the vent pipe. Light smoke damage was present throughout the home. Damage estimates are less then $2500.00.

There were no injuries and the residents were able to stay in the residence after the light smoke was ventilated from home. One of the adults had attempted to use a fire extinguisher but was not able to reach some of the smoldering lint in the vent pipe.

While the residents were awake and discovered the fire just prior to the smoke alarms sounding, had the fire occurred when occupants were sleeping, the working smoke alarms would have been the first notification of a fire in progress. Working smoke alarms save lives and you are encouraged to test the smoke alarms in your home today and at least once per month.

This fire also serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring dryer lint traps and dryer vent pipe are cleaned on a regular basis. Many companies offer dryer vent cleaning services or do-it-yourself kits are available at most hardware and home improvement stores.

 

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