Oily rags could burst into flames if put in dryer: Windsor fire

Rags used to clean up oily spills and put in the dryer could spontaneously combust and cause a fire, warns the Windsor fire department. 

The caution comes after several incidents in hotels and restaurants where rags or towels were used to clean things like the oil from deep fryers were thrown in the dryer and burst into flames.  

"Spontaneous combustion is a serious source of fires wherever oily rags are used; not only restaurant or hotel laundries, but also in homes, garages and workshops," states the warning on the Windsor Fire and Rescue Services website. 

When oily rags are bunched up and piled on top of each other or placed somewhere where there is warmth, heat can build to a point where it ignites a flammable material. 

7 safe cleaning tips

• Do not put oily rags or towels in a dryer, even if washed 
• Soak up oil spills with rags or old towels 
• If keeping rags - wash them in warm, soapy water or use a degreaser
• Hand rags outside to dry if possible
• If hanging rags inside, keep them away from heat sources such as furnaces and water heaters
• When throwing out oily rags, hang them outside to dry before putting them in the trash 
• Don't leave hot or damp rags in a pile, spread them out