Drying clothes on hangers on radiators 'is safest'

Article date : 16/08/2010

Drying clothes by placing them on a special hanging device that can be attached to radiators is safer than ever placing garments in front of an open heat source, it has been claimed.

The warning comes from Ian Bowell, group manager at Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, after two people were rescued by police officers from their Ipswich home when a tea towel on a hob caught fire.

According to EADT 24, the occupants had been asleep when the officers spotted smoke coming from the property and later had to be treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation.

"We would always recommend that you use either an airing cupboard to dry clothes or special clothes hangers that you can put on water-filled radiators, but never put them in front of an open heat source that can ignite," Mr Bowell said.

He added that drying clothes next to an electric heater, open fore or hob can be very dangerous and result in a blaze.

Mr Bowell also recommended fitting a smoke alarm.

Britons wishing to ensure their radiators are working as efficiently as possible are advised to check if they need bleeding, which involves removing any trapped air bubbles to allow the water to circulate.

Written by Tony Harrison

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