A fire incident involving a tumble dryer in a garage at Stream Lane, Hawkhurst, near Cranbrook, drew a response from the Kent Fire and Rescue Service. The incident occurred on Sunday, 23rd July 2023, and fire crews promptly arrived at the scene to address the situation.
The emergency call reported a tumble dryer ablaze inside a residential garage, leading to the dispatch of two fire engines to the location. On arrival, firefighters donned personal protective equipment (PPE) and utilized breathing apparatus to safely approach the fire. Employing a high-pressure hose reel jet, they efficiently extinguished the fire, preventing it from spreading further and causing more damage.
Thankfully, there were no reported injuries resulting from the incident. However, the incident serves as a crucial reminder of the potential dangers associated with household appliances if proper safety measures are not observed.
In the aftermath of the fire, firefighters are taking this opportunity to emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and precautions when using tumble dryers. They advise homeowners to remove lint from the dryer’s filters before each use, as accumulated lint can become a fire hazard when exposed to high temperatures during the drying process.
Furthermore, authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and avoid running appliances such as tumble dryers when no one is at home or during nighttime hours. By running appliances only while occupants are present and awake, the risk of potential fires can be significantly reduced, allowing for swift response in case of emergencies.
House fires caused by tumble dryers are not uncommon and can be devastating, leading to property damage, injuries, or worse. Kent Fire and Rescue Service is determined to prevent such incidents through proactive safety education and awareness campaigns.
The community is encouraged to take these safety reminders seriously and to share this valuable information with friends, family, and neighbours to ensure everyone is informed about the potential hazards associated with tumble dryers and other household appliances.
