The frequency of residential fires increases during the holidays so the Wizard is working to encourage homeowners to eliminate fire hazards so more firefighters can enjoy the holiday with their families
Louisville, KY – The Dryer Vent Cleaning Louisville Wizard works all year to promote public awareness of the importance of dryer maintenance. Over 17,000 dryer fires occur annually, causing deaths, injuries and nearly $200 million in property damage. The Wizard provides an important dryer maintenance service while offering fire prevention tips to the customer.
The frequency of home fires increases during the holiday season which means many firefighters are working instead of enjoying time spent with their family. Between 2006 and 2010 firefighters responded to an average of 230 Christmas tree fires, causing an average of 4 deaths, 21 injuries and 17.3 Million in property damage annually. On average, 1 out of 66 Christmas tree fires resulted in death.
To help local firefighters be home for the holidays, Keith O’Loane, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard (www.dryerventcleaninglouisville.blogspot.com/) is providing the following home fire prevention tips to his customers:
When using an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled; certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.
When using a live tree select one with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
Cut 1 – 2 inches from the base of the trunk before placing in the tree stand and water daily
Place the tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source including fireplaces, radiators, heat vents and candles. One out of every 5 Christmas tree fires is caused by placing a heater too close.
Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit
Use lights that have a label of an independent testing laboratory.
Read the packaging and be sure to use only as intended; some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
Check strings of lights each year for worn or broken cords and sockets or loose bulb connections.
Do not overload outlets. The label should indicate the maximum number of stings that can be connected and plugged into one outlet.
Always turn off Christmas lights when leaving the home or going to sleep.
Dispose of tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire hazard and should not be kept in the home or left in the garage.
Keith O’Loane purchased his Dryer Vent Wizard franchise in December of 2008 to make a difference for residents and business owners in his community. Education is a vital part of dryer vent service and customers enjoy peace of mind knowing their clothes dryer operates safely and efficiently. Visit http://louisvilledryerventcleaningwizard.info 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.