In recent years, dryer vent fires increased to 15,800, up over 15 percent from previous years, resulting in at least 20 deaths and 310 injuries annually. Most dryer vent fires start with a buildup of lint, which blocks the flow of air and ignites when it becomes too hot. Most often, poor venting causes the problem. As most people prefer to keep their dryer pushed as close to the wall as possible, this leaves little room for the pipe to come out and turn. Most people crush that pipe, which creates a trap for lint to collect, in an effort to get the dryer closer to the wall. Also, dryer venting tends to sag, if it is not guided through the rafters with rigid ducting. The curves will stop the lint from blowing out. Lint becomes trapped in the ribs of ducting, creating pockets of potentially flammable debris. The easiest solution: clean your dryer vents regularly or have them professionally cleaned. Make sure that your dryer is operating properly. Each time that you begin a new load of clothes you should make sure that the filter has been cleaned; also, check the outside exhaust to see that air is escaping normally. Jeffrey Decker can handle all your dryer vent cleaning needs.