FMG is advising customers and the broader community to clear lint from their tumble dryers, following a significant house fire in Papakaio last year.
FMG highlighted the experience of Michelle and Rogan Borrie, who encountered a dryer fire in July 2023 at one of their Papakaio farmhouses. Fire investigators identified a full lint filter as the cause.
The Borries now stress the importance of regular lint removal and operational smoke alarms.
“Cleaning the lint filter out might be the difference between life and death. Insurance is there for physical damage, but I know we would all find it much harder to sleep at night had a life had been lost so close to home,” Michelle said.
The Borries advocate for regular smoke alarm checks, tenant discussions about contents insurance, and clear emergency procedures for tenants. Their property rebuild includes relocating laundries to improve ventilation and reduce fire risks.
FMG advice services manager Angela Taylor pointed out the increased reliance on tumble dryers during winter months due to shorter days and adverse weather conditions.
She noted that house fire claims tend to rise during this period, with over 126 fire-related claims reported in the first half of this year.
“Following the winter solstice, we know the days are at their shortest, the temperatures low, and weather inclement. It is hard to get washing dry on the line and people often need to resort to using tumble dryers to get the job done,” she said. “Clogged vents, ducts, and filters are the primary causes of dryer fires.”
FMG has introduced a fire-retardant lint bag designed to attach to tumble dryers.
This product, intended to promote safer dryer practices, was available at Mystery Creek Fieldays and will be distributed at future workshops held in partnership with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).
“It is easy to say, ‘oh I will empty it next time.’ It’s much harder to deal with the aftermath of a house fire. These lint bags are our way of taking away the excuses and helping encourage safer behaviours when it comes to getting your clothes dry,” Taylor said. “Rest assured the days will keep getting longer and the washing line will be back in action in no time. But in the interim – clean that lint filter!”
Aside from introducing a fire-retardant lint bag designed to attach to tumble dryers, FMG outlined safety recommendation to prevent dryer fires:
