BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Most people remember to lock the doors and turn off the lights before heading out for summer vacation. But there’s another important safety step that often gets overlooked: unplugging electronics. Leaving certain items plugged in not only wastes electricity but can also increase the risk of fires, especially when no one is home to catch a problem early.
Many electronics continue to draw power even when they’re off, which is a phenomenon known as standby power. This constant trickle adds up over time, accounting for up to ten percent of a home’s total electricity use. Even more concerning is the fire risk associated with some devices that are left plugged in for long periods.
Here are the top five things everyone should unplug before heading out of town.
1. Battery chargers
From e-bikes and laptops to cordless tools, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere these days. They’re efficient and compact, but they can also overheat if damaged or left charging too long. That’s why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) advises against leaving batteries on the charger once they’re fully powered up, especially overnight or when you’re away.
To be extra cautious, unplug any chargers connected to lithium-ion batteries before you leave. That includes large devices and smaller everyday items like phone and tablet chargers. Even if the fire risk is low for those smaller cords, the continuous electrical current can strain internal components over time.
2. Space heaters
Space heaters are cozy in the winter, but they don’t belong in use, or even plugged in, when you’re not home. Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires, and space heaters play a big role in that. Without an automatic shutoff feature, these appliances can be hazardous if left connected.
Unplug them entirely before you leave, and double-check that they’re cool to the touch and safely stored away from anything flammable.
3. Countertop appliances
That toaster might look harmless, but it can pose a risk if it’s left plugged in while you’re away. Kitchen appliances like toaster ovens, coffee makers, and electric kettles generate high heat and often have leftover crumbs or oil residue, a combination that can lead to ignition in the event of a power surge or wiring malfunction.
Play it safe and unplug these countertop gadgets before locking up. Bonus: you’ll save a little on your electric bill too.
4. Home entertainment systems
Flat-screen TVs, game consoles, surround sound systems; these all draw power even when they’re switched off. In fact, standby power from entertainment systems alone can account for five to ten percent of total electricity use in a household.
If you want to save energy and protect your devices from voltage spikes, unplug them before vacation. Consider plugging them into a surge-protected power strip to make it easier to turn everything off at once. That way, you’re not only cutting power but also protecting your devices from electrical surges while you’re gone.
5. Hairstyling tools
Curling irons, wands, and hair dryers are easy to forget and easy to overheat. Leaving them plugged in poses a real fire risk, especially if cords are damaged or the tools are resting on flammable surfaces.
Make it a habit to unplug these devices right after use, and definitely before leaving for a trip. And if they’re stored in the bathroom, check to ensure your outlets are equipped with ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which automatically cut power if something goes wrong.
Peace of mind starts with prevention
Taking a few minutes to unplug key electronics before leaving for vacation can make a big difference. You’ll reduce the risk of fire, lower your energy bill, and return to a home that’s just as you left it: safe and sound.
Make this checklist part of your pre-travel routine, and enjoy your trip knowing your home is protected.
