MSP Echoes Safety Advice on Tumble Dryers

Local MSP Stewart Stevenson has highlighted safety advice issued by campaigning charity Electrical Safety First on avoiding tumble dryer fires.

“With 47 fires caused by tumble dryers in Scottish homes last year and a major, ongoing tumble dryer recall, all of us need to check and use them safely”, explains Stewart Stevenson MSP “So I’ve joined Electrical Safety First’s campaign to ensure my constituents stay safe in their homes.”

White goods manufacturer, Whirlpool, is recalling a number of its tumble dryers – but the company estimates that there are still around 500,000 affected machines in UK homes.[i]

Mr Stevenson continued:

“I am supporting the charity’s campaign to ensure that all recalled tumble dryers are removed from use and to encourage people to check if they have an affected model. But even if you are not one of those affected by the recall, it’s really important to follow some simple safety tips when using your machine”.

"Currently, recalls have just a 20% effectiveness rate, so checking you don’t have an effected model is a priority. However, Wayne Mackay, Deputy Public Affairs Manager at Electrical Safety First, explains that the campaign also has a wider aim.

“We also want to provide a timely reminder on using tumble dryers safely”, reveals Wayne. “And we have devised a range of tools and top tips to help, including our dedicated site - www.whitegoodsafety.com - where my constituents can check if you have an affected tumble dryer, or indeed, other recalled ‘white goods’, such as fridges and washing machines”.

For more information, take a look at Electrical Safety First’s top tips, below:

To check if you have a recalled tumble dryer

• Visit: www.whitegoodsafety.com.
• Check if you have a Whirlpool owned brand machine, such as Hotpoint, Creda, Indesit or Swan. You can do this by looking at Whirlpool’s online model checker to see if your product is affected – if it is, call Whirlpool on 0800 151 0905 to have it replaced or consult https://safety.hotpoint.eu to check your model.
• If you’re in any doubt, stop using - and unplug - your machine immediately.

Top tips for tumble dryer safety

• Never overload the dryer – take large or bulky items like duvets to the dry cleaners.
• Always allow each drying programme, including the "cool-down cycle", to completely finish.
• If you have to stop the dryer before the end of the cycle, remove all items and leave the door open to dissipate heat.
• Don't use your tumble dryer to dry clothes that are contaminated with combustible substances like solvents, grease, oils or fats.
• Don't leave your tumble dryer running overnight, or when you are out.