Engineer Jerry Poon Flags 7 Household Devices to Unplug for Fire Safety

1 articles · Updated · CNET · Jun 10

Seven devices — including space heaters, air fryers, portable AC units, hair tools, older coffee makers, old-cord lamps and toasters — should be unplugged when not in use or when leaving home, electrical engineer Jerry Poon said.
Poon's rule: unplug anything that gets hot, draws heavy power or has a damaged cord, warning that cheap power strips, loose outlets and standby power can turn "off" devices into fire risks.
Space heaters are the clearest hazard: US fire departments responded to an estimated 38,881 home heating equipment fires from 2019 to 2023, with space heaters and heating stoves accounting for 29%.
Low-draw electronics such as phone chargers, alarm clocks, TVs and computer monitors are generally safe to leave plugged in if cords and outlets are in good condition.