PETS and people at a property were safe after a tumble dryer fire.

Fire crews from Wareham and Poole were called to Tamlin Street, Sandford, at just after 11am this morning (March 20) to reports of smoke coming from the appliance.

“During the call it was confirmed that the occupant and several pets were able to leave safely,” a Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

“The fire was confined to the tumble dryer and was out prior to the arrival of crews and firefighters removed the appliance from the property.”

They said firefighters carried out a Safe & Well visit to give the occupants safety advice.

Tips for preventing tumble dyer fires include:

* remove lint from the trap regularly

* use one dedicated socket for the tumble dryer

* do not cover the vent or any other opening

* ensure the vent pipe is free from kinks

* do not leave a dryer running when you’re asleep or when leaving the house

* don’t overfill the drum

* don’t dry anything with oil on it (e.g. a rag used to clean up an oily spillage)

* clean the heat exchanger regularly