Early Morning Fire Caused by Dryer

LONGVIEW � Authorities believe a house fire was started by a dryer. The Longview Fire Department responded to 201 Conroe Street for a fire in the laundry room of the residence around 2:00 Sunday morning. One of the occupants of the home smelled smoke and then noticed smoke coming from the area of the dryer. He tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher. But the fire had already begun to travel up and into the void of the wall where it spread to the attic. According to the occupants there was about a fifteen minute gap between trying to extinguish the fire and notifying 911 dispatchers of the incident.

The fire scene investigation determined the source of the fire was a combination of built up lint and a faulty/ damaged electrical connection in the dryer. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. The fire caused approximately $12,000 in damage to the structure.

Using a fire extinguisher on a small incipient fire is recommended if it can be done safely, although it should not replace early notification to the 911 emergency dispatchers. This incident also offers a reminder to routinely check for lint in the filters, under the dryer and exhaust piping. If any loose or broken electrical components are noticed the appliance should be un-plugged and repairs made by a trained technician. A smoke alarm in the laundry room can also help in notifying the residence of an issue expediting a response by the fire department by a prompt 911 call.