Most dryer damage and fires can be prevented with proper vent maintenance. When a dryer vent becomes clogged with lint, it is inefficient, resulting in longer drying times. Besides clogging the vent, lint is also combustible. According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission there were an estimated 15,500 dryer fires in 1996 resulting in 20 deaths, 320 injuries, and about $84.4 million in property damage.