The basement or utility room are likely places to store things but excess clutter around heat producing appliances can lead to a hazardous situation
Crozet VA -- The Crozet Dryer Vent Cleaning Wizard warns homeowners about storing certain items near the clothes dryer, furnace or water heater. The combination of combustibles, electricity and heat generating appliances can be dangerous. Cardboard boxes and old newspapers and magazines, even if they are not the cause of a fire, will provide fuel to allow the flames to spread rapidly.
The Wizard also point out that excess clutter can be a trip and fall hazard and hinder escape if a fire should occur. Flammable liquids can emit vapors that are heavier than air. These vapors could ignite by a small spark from the pilot light on the furnace or water heater.
Paul Beum, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard (http://dryerventcleaningcrozet.blogspot.com/) is focused on eliminating dryer fires while educating homeowners about dryer safety and maintenance. Though his main focus is proper dryer vent installation and regularly scheduled dryer vent cleaning service, he also points out other hazards in the laundry room when he notices them.
Safe storage advice and fire prevention tips from the Wizard include:
• Store combustible materials well away from heat producing appliances, preferably in the garage or outdoor shed
• Lawn mowers, snow blowers, weed trimmers and other gas powered equipment should not be kept inside the home
• Store propane, gas, paint and other flammable substances in approved containers
• Make sure the electrical system is up to code. Never overload circuits or use extension cords for items requiring a permanent power supply like air conditioners and refrigerators.
• When a circuit breaker trips repeatedly, locate the problem or call an electrician to check it out. This could be a warning sign of danger.
• Have HVAC equipment inspected and maintained regularly
• Keep the basement clean and free from excess clutter
Dryer Vent Wizard specializes in commercial and residential dryer vent service while educating consumers about dryer fire prevention and energy savings. Robb Vandenberg recommends annual dryer vent inspection and service to prevent dryer fires, extend dryer life and save energy. All home appliances require maintenance for maximum performance. Dryer maintenance is vital to home safety as well.
Consumers who use Dryer Vent Wizard can be confident that the job will be done right. The Wizard will provide an accurate assessment of the current safety and efficiency issues regarding the dryer vent system along with a fair and reasonable estimate for services needed. Paul Beum serves the Blue Ridge area, Charlottesville, Crozet, Harrisonburg and surrounding cities. Visit http://crozetva.dryerventcleaningnow.com/ to learn more.
About Dryer Vent Wizard:
Dryer Vent Wizard is a member of the National Fire Protection Association and the largest chain of dryer vent cleaning, repair, replacement and alternation specialists in the U.S. with over 60 franchisees in major markets. Dryer Vent Wizard franchisees work to promote public awareness on the importance of dryer vent cleaning to prevent dryer fires and save energy. Consumer education while making clothes dryers safer and greener are the main focus of DVW franchisees. Dryer Vent Wizard was founded in 2004 by Dave Lavalle who is also the founder of the Mr. Handyman franchise.