🔌 Why “Toasters & Similar Appliances” Should Be Unplugged
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A ordinary toaster (or toaster‑oven / air‑fryer / small oven) uses exposed heating coils. Crumbs, food residue, dust or oil accumulation near those coils can — in rare cases — smolder or ignite if there’s a fault or power surge. Greenviewgps.co.uk+2RCDBS+2
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Even if switched off, many appliances still draw a small amount of electricity (“standby” or “phantom” power), which adds waste and slightly increases fire risk. The Times of India+1
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Older units, frayed cords, or damaged wiring can malfunction unpredictably — a risk that’s magnified at night when no one’s awake to notice sparks, heat, or odors. RCDBS+1
🏠 What Else to Unplug (If You Want to Be Safe)
According to safety guides, besides toasters, you should especially consider unplugging:
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Air Fryer / toaster‑ovens / mini ovens — they all use heating elements and sometimes run hot. The Times of India+2RCDBS+2
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Electric kettles / coffee‑makers / slow cookers / pressure cookers / hot plates — anything that heats and might remain on or draw power even after cooking. The Times of India+2awaredaily.com+2
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Other small countertop appliances (blenders, food‑processors, etc.), especially if they have power‑indicator lights or vulnerable cords. The Times of India+2Neighborly+2
✅ Simple Safety Habit: Unplug After Use
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The simplest precaution — pull the plug once you’re done using the appliance and finished cleaning up.
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Make it a habit before sleeping or leaving home. It costs only a few seconds but can drastically reduce the risk of accidental fires or electric faults.
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Also keep wiring and plugs in good condition — frayed cords or loose connections increase fire risk.
If you want — I can pull up a short “checklist for fire‑safe kitchen habits” (unplugging + storage + maintenance) — useful for homes with frequent power surges (like in many parts of Pakistan). Want me to build that list for you now?