Two blazes that occurred Tuesday in Whitehorse are a reminder about fire safety, says fire chief Warren Zakus.

The Whitehorse Fire Department was notified of a blaze in Valleyview at approximately 2:17 p.m.

A resident in the area had left the house while the dryer was running. The dryer then caught fire and when the smoke alarm was activated, an alert neighbour called the fire department.

Responders were able to extinguish the fire before it spread, minimizing any damage.

Zakus advised residents to ensure their dryers are free of lint.

'Buildup of lint can catch fire in the dryer,' he said.

The second fire occurred at 7 Ketza Rd. in Riverdale.

An accidental kitchen fire spread and caused 'extensive damage to the upper floor of the house,' said Zakus.

The department received the call at about 3:37 p.m. Ten firefighters and three fire trucks were at the scene for two hours.

They were able to contain the fire to the upper floor of the house, which suffered significant smoke and heat damage. The lower level was not damaged, said Zakus.

The house is repairable, he said, because the fire did not cause any structural damage.