Failing to clean the dryer filter poses a particular fire hazard, as more than 14,000 home fires annually start in the laundry room. Many of those are attributed to an overabundance of dryer lint, according to Porch.com. Another safety tip for homeowners: have an emergency kit at home, as recommended by Ready.gov. Porch.com highlights the key components of such a kit, and their survey shows how many homeowners fail to have every item listed.