Sheridan Fire-Rescue respond to dryer fire

Sheridan Fire-Rescue responded to an activated fire alarm at 1551 Sugarland Dr. at 1:23 a.m. The first arriving Engine encountered light smoke visible on the exterior of the South side of the apartment complex along with visible and audible fire alarm devices activated inside, according to a press release.

The engine company entered the facility and met with staff that stated there was a fire in the dryer located in the 1st floor laundry room. The fire alarm system alerted staff of the fire and staff attempted to extinguish the fire with a nearby ABC fire extinguisher.

Two firefighters in full personal protective gear, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and tools proceeded to the laundry room where they encountered a moderate amount of light colored smoke, but minimal heat. The dryer door was opened and smoldering linens were found. The linens were extinguished and the fire was under control within four minutes of arrival. 

The firefighters requested ventilation to clear the area of smoke while they inspected the area under, behind, and around the dryer confirming the fire did not extend to any other nearby combustible materials, which did not occur.

Firefighters remained on scene until 2:36 a.m. assisting clearing adjacent rooms of smoke and restoring the fire alarm system.

There were no injuries reported to staff or firefighters and all occupants safely evacuated to the stairwell on each end of the building.

Sheridan Fire-Rescue reminds everyone that the area around a dryer needs to be kept clean. Dryer lint traps need to be cleaned after each use. The dryer vents need to be cleaned frequently, as lint can accumulate and ignite from the operating temperatures of the dryer.