Did you clean your lint filter? If not, that mistake could be fatal

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- It's often an afterthought when doing daily chores, but a simple overlook could be fatal.

Did you remember to clean the lint filter when doing laundry? No? That mistake results in 100 injuries and five deaths each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Failure to remove lint from the dryer is the leading cause of 2,900 annual dryer fires.

So, what do you do?

The simple answer is to get into the habit of cleaning the filter before and after each cycle. Not only is it good for safety reasons, but the cleaning allows heat to move freely, avoiding prolonged drying times, and saving energy.

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following to keep safe:

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional

• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter

• Clean the lint filter before and after each cycle

• Do not forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up

• Check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure that it is not damaged, crushed or restricted

• Make sure the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is operating