Tumble dryer fault to blame for fire in Flint

Feb 8 2010 by Eleanor Barlow, Flintshire Chronicle

THE fire service is warning of the potential dangers of tumble dryers after a fire at a property in Flint.

Crews from Deeside and Holywell attended the blaze in Greenbank Drive at about 4.30pm last Wednesday, February 3.

The fire was started by an electrical fault in the tumble dryer and caused heat and smoke damage to the kitchen and smoke damage to the rest of the property.

Mark Kassab, fire safety officer for North Wales Fire and Rescue, advised people to use their tumble dryers in a safe way.

He said the machine should never be overloaded and should not be left on when occupants are out or in bed.

He also advised people not to set the programme for too long and to clean the filters regularly.

He said: “By carrying out the above precautions you should reduce the risk of a tumble dryer fire however, you must also ensure that you have a working smoke alarm installed and maintained as they give early warning of a fire.”

To register for a free home fire safety check call 0800 169 1234, visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk or text 88365, ensuring you prefix your message with the word HFSC.