This simple device in your home could be a hidden fire hazard

It’s the kind of thing most of us use without a second thought. Tucked behind the TV, under a desk, or hiding behind a couch, the humble power strip—or multi-socket extension—has become a staple in nearly every household. But while it makes life more convenient, this small device can pose serious safety risks if not used properly. In fact, it could be quietly increasing the risk of electrical fires right inside your home.

When Convenience Turns Dangerous

In a world of phones, tablets, chargers, smart TVs, and endless kitchen gadgets, it often feels like there are never enough outlets. Enter the power strip: plug one into the wall and voilà—you’ve got six outlets instead of one. But as any fire safety expert will tell you, what seems like a clever solution can become dangerous very quickly when misused or overloaded.

According to French fire data, up to 35% of household fires are linked to electrical faults, and many of those start with poor use of power strips. In some cases, all it takes is one spark near the wrong object for disaster to strike.

The Wrong Place to Plug In

One of the most overlooked dangers is where you place your power strip. Avoid putting it near anything that can easily catch fire—think curtains, rugs, or piles of clothes. I once visited a friend whose surge protector was buried under a throw blanket near the sofa—safe to say, we moved it pretty quickly.

When a power strip heats up or produces a tiny arc of electricity (which can happen if it’s overloaded), having it near flammable materials can instantly turn a small problem into a major one.

Beware the Water (and the Window)

Another no-go: using a power strip near water sources. While that might seem obvious in the bathroom or kitchen, fewer people realize the risk of placing one near a window. If the window is left open during rain, water can easily reach the strip and cause a short circuit, potentially triggering a fire or even shocking someone nearby.

How to Use Power Strips Safely

Experts recommend some simple, yet often ignored, rules for safer use:

• Unplug it when not in use, or at the very least, turn off its switch if it has one.

• Never, ever, plug a power strip into another power strip—a common but dangerous habit known as “daisy chaining.”

• Avoid plugging in high-wattage appliances like microwaves, kettles, toasters, or space heaters. These draw a lot of power and should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet.

I made the mistake once of plugging both a space heater and a vacuum into a single strip. Nothing happened at first—but a burning smell later reminded me that I’d gotten lucky. Not everyone is so fortunate.

Know What Not to Plug In

Appliances that demand high energy are the top culprits in extension cord mishaps. Some of the worst offenders include:

• Hairdryers

• Washing machines and dryers

• Refrigerators and freezers

• Coffee machines and toasters

• Dishwashers

• Electric ovens and irons

• Air conditioning units

If you’re unsure whether something draws too much power, check the label—or better yet, ask an electrician.

A Hidden Risk You Can Prevent

Power strips are handy, no doubt. But they’re not foolproof—and they’re definitely not built for everything. By staying informed and paying attention to placement, usage, and load capacity, you can turn a hidden hazard into a safe and useful tool.

Sometimes, home safety isn’t about expensive upgrades. It’s about small habits, smart choices—and knowing that even the most ordinary objects, like a simple power strip, can have extraordinary consequences if taken for granted.