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Tumble dryer fire spreads through home and next door garage

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service A badly fire-damaged garage with blackened furniture including a tumble dryer visibleNorth Wales Fire and Rescue Service
The fire, which began in the garage, is thought to have occurred due to a tumble dryer fault

Firefighters are urging people to use tumble dryers safely after a major blaze damaged a home.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service was called to a property in Menai Bridge, Anglesey, on Wednesday evening, where the fire had spread from the garage into the conservatory and the main property, as well as to the garage of the next door property.

Substantial damage was caused, but nobody was hurt.

The fire is thought to have been caused by a fault in the tumble dryer, and the crew has issued safety advice for people using them, including keeping the machine ventilated and not ignoring warning signals.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service A badly fire-damaged conservatory window with the remains of ruined curtains hanging in front an the fire-damaged garage visible behind.North Wales Fire and Rescue Service
The fire spread through the conservatory, into the main property and also to next door's garage

How to prevent tumble dryer fires

The fire service's tips include:

  • Don't overload plug sockets - the high wattage for a tumble dryer means that it needs its own 13-amp socket. Keep an eye out for any scorching or burn marks, including checking any visible electrical wires
  • Don't leave appliances unattended – don't turn the tumble dryer on before you leave the house or go to bed. Tumble dryers contain powerful motors with fast-moving parts that can get very hot
  • Keep your dryer well ventilated - make sure the vent pipe is kink free and not blocked or crushed in any way
  • Always clean out the filter after using your tumble dryer
  • Always allow each drying programme to complete fully before emptying - if you stop the machine mid cycle, the clothing will still be hot
  • Don't ignore the warning signs – if you can smell burning or clothes feel hotter at the end of the cycle, stop using your appliance and have it checked out by a professional
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms - test them regularly, once a week is recommended