After being called out to nearly 40 tumble dryer fires in a year, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is urging the public to be aware of the dangers posed by the electrical devices and to abide by key safety tips, to keep themselves and their families safe.

Between June 1 2016 and May 31 2017, the fire service have attend 38 tumble dryer fires.

Beko Plc have recently issued a safety alert and initiated a voluntary repair programme as a precautionary measure to locate 3,450 8kg and 9kg Beko and Blomberg condenser tumble dryers, manufactured between May and November 2012.

The affected models listed on the Beko website are: DCU9330W, DCU9330R, DCU8230, DSC85W, TKF8439A. Further information can be found via the Beko website beko.co.uk/dryerrepair#!/check/precheck

The Electrical Safety First website issues safety advice on tumble dryers and all electronic devises found in the home and encourages owners of tumble dryers to register their appliances with the manufacturers.

Advice on how to register your tumble dryer with the manufacturer can be found on the Electrical Safety First website electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guides-and-advice/electrical-items/tumble-dryers/

Regardless of the make or model of a tumble dryer, these simple safety tips should be adhered to significantly reduce the risk of a tumble dryer overheating and causing a fire.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the use and maintenance of the appliance, clean the lint trap after every use, don’t overload plug sockets, don’t leave appliances unattended, don’t ignore warning signs and don’t overload your tumble dryer or put items in that have been used to soak up flammable liquids, including cooking oil.

Steve Davies, Deputy Head of Community Safety said, “The summer is upon us, and whilst the use of tumble dryers might not be as frequent, the ever-unreliable Welsh weather will surely mean many of us will continue to dry our laundry in tumble dryers.

"It is vital, therefore, that people regularly maintain their tumble dryers, this means cleaning the lint trap after every use. This is a simple and easy task that could protect you, your family and your home.

"Some people might be tempted to turn the tumble dryer on before leaving the house or before going to bed, the Fire Service strongly advises against this. Early detection of a fire can deploy the firefighters to the scene quickly and can significantly reduce the terrible consequences of fire.

"In this vein, it is important that all homes have smoke alarms that are correctly fitted and are tested regularly.”

Advice on home safety and free home fire safety checks is available from MAWWFRS. Contact them through the website mawwfire.gov.uk or by calling 0800 169 1234 for more information.