Disaster averted in morning dryer fire by quick thinking resident in Kirbyville

At 7:30 this morning, Kirbyville Volunteer Fire Department was called out to 913 West MLK for a dryer fire.

KVFD 1st Assistant Chief Steven Sowder said that the homeowner did a great job putting the fire out before they arrived by turning a garden hose into the dryer extinguishing the flames. Because of this the fire was contained in the dryer so there was no serious damage, just some drywall repair is all that would be needed.

Sowder also said that arriving units did have some difficulty locating the residence. He said, "I advised the homeowners to go to Walmart in the mailbox section and buy a 911 sign. It comes with 4 inch green numbers to put on or near the mailbox to clearly mark the location so that we can find the home easier should we be needed in the future."

Sowder reiterated, "The homeowner did a great job putting the fire out. When we got there, we just pulled the dryer out into the yard and used our thermal in the attic to make sure nothing was left smoldering."

Sowder added that dryer fires are common, but homeowners can reduce the likelihood of one with a little maintenance. "Clean the lint trap frequently and go into the back of the dryer and pull the duct off. Use a brush and a shop vac to remove any accumulated lint."

KVFD arrived with 6 firefighters and Unit 2. No water was used.