Fire Prevention

Fire Risk is Real

While modern firmware and hardware have excellent safety features, a 3D printer is a high-power machine that melts plastic with hot metal. A risk of fire, however small, always exists. Taking preventive measures and being prepared are essential.

The Golden Rule: Never Print Unattended

This is the single most effective fire prevention strategy. Most failures that could lead to a fire happen over time. If you are present, you can intervene and cut the power before a disaster occurs. Do not rely on webcams alone; you cannot smell smoke or act through a video feed.

Your Safety Net: Alarms and Extinguishers

Being prepared for the worst-case scenario is part of responsible printer ownership.

1. Smoke Detector: Install a functional smoke detector on the ceiling directly above the printer. Test it regularly. Consider a "smart" smoke detector that can send an alert to your phone if you are away from home.
2. Fire Extinguisher: Keep an appropriate fire extinguisher easily accessible in the same room as the printer. For fires involving electronics, a CO2 or ABC Dry Powder extinguisher is required.

A 3D printer in a workspace, with a smoke detector clearly visible on the ceiling above it and an appropriate fire extinguisher mounted on a nearby wall.

Maintain a Safe Environment

• Clear a Perimeter: Keep the area around your printer clear of flammable materials. This includes loose paper, cardboard, aerosol cans (like IPA or hairspray), and excess spools of filament.
• Regular Cleaning: Do not allow plastic strings, dust, and other debris to build up inside or around your printer.