Firefighters are reminding householders to follow some simple safety advice when using washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers following a fire today.

Terry Ridgley, head of Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service’s Community Safety team, said: “We are urging people to be aware of the risks associated with washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers. These tips will help reduce your chances of suffering this sort of fire.”

General safety

• Don’t leave the washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher running overnight or while you are out. They are a fire risk because of their high wattage, friction and motors.

Tumble dryer safety

• Remove the lint from the trap after every load of clothes dried
  
  
• Do not cover the vent or any other opening
  
  
• Ensure the vent pipe is free of kinks and is not crushed in any way
  
  
• Only used recommended vent pipes, and not improvised ones
  
  
• Only vent the warm air to the outside of a building
  
  
• Do not put rags or materials into your tumble dryer if they have been used to soak up flammable liquids.

Tell-tale signs that your tumble dryer is not properly ventilated

• Clothes take a very long time to dry, especially heavy articles of clothing such as towels or jeans
  
  
• Clothes feel hotter than usual at the end of the cycle
  
  
• The flapper on the vent hood remains closed when the dryer is on