The most important thing someone can do to avoid a dryer or washing machine fire is to clean the lint filter between washes. According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2010, there were about 16,800 reported fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines in homes. 51 people died, 380 people were injured, and millions of dollars in property damage was recorded.
Why Dryer and Washing Machine Fires Happen
Laundry machines are available as stand-alone units (washing machine and clothes dryer) or as a washer and dryer combination (commonly found in apartment buildings or small spaces). When a laundry machine is the cause of a fire 9 out of 10 times the clothes dryer was responsible for the fire.
The main causes of clothes dryer fires are (1) failure to clean the lint trap, (2) unclassified mechanical failure or malfunction, or (3) electrical failure or malfunction. There was little difference in safety levels between a gas-fueled clothes dryer and electric powered clothes dryer.
Who is Responsible for Repairing Dryer and Washing Machines
- Renters – If your written lease provides that certain appliances come with the rented unit, then you are paying for a unit with working appliances. If the appliances are not functioning property, the landlord must fix, repair, or replace them within a reasonable time period.
- Landlord or Homeowners – The landlord or homeowner is responsible for repairing and maintaining the dryer and washing machine.
Protecting Your Family and Belongings
The following safety tips should be kept in mind when installing, maintaining, or removing washing machines and clothes dryers.
- Hire a professional to install your clothes dryer. Many appliance companies offer installation services (free or add on) as part of the purchase price of the clothes dryer.
- Install and use the clothes dryer with a lint filter.
- Before or after each use, clean the lint filter by removing and disposing of any lint that has collected around the drum of the clothes dryer.
Injured by a Dryer or Washing Machine Fire in Massachusetts?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a dryer or washing machine fire, then call The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan today. We have a proven track record with over 35 years of legal experience. Our accident victim and personal injury attorneys have been successfully representing victims of fires for decades and we are ready to take on your case today.
No matter where you are located, we are just a phone call away. Call our law offices today to schedule a free no-obligation case review and consultation at (508) 588-0422 or click the link below to use our Free Case Evaluation Form.
Our personal injury lawyers assist accident victims throughout all of Southeast Massachusetts, including but not limited to Plymouth County including Brockton, Plymouth, Bridgewater, Marshfield, Hingham, Duxbury, Wareham, Abington, Rockland, Whitman, Hanson, Holbrook, Middleborough; Norfolk County including Quincy, Stoughton, Dedham, Weymouth, Braintree, Avon, Holbrook, Randolph, Canton, Sharon, Brookline, Franklin; Bristol County including New Bedford, Fall River, Taunton, Attleboro, Mansfield, Easton, Raynham, Lakeville, Norton; Cape Cod, Hyannis, Falmouth, Barnstable, Worcester, Springfield, Holyoke, and the Greater Boston area including Cambridge, Somerville, Medford, Everett, Lawrence, Lynn, Revere, Dorchester, Roxbury.
