I’ve long been trying to prove an inconsequential point to my spouse that there is no harm in leaving small appliances or surge strips plugged in. She has the somewhat annoying habit of unplugging all small appliances (toaster, coffee pot, etc…) and unplugging power strips around the house. She also holds the viewpoint that those 6 foot (christmas tree light) extension cords are not suitable or safe for use around the home. Here are the arguements for each side of the discussion.
ME: I’ve been alive 31 years and never had a problem with any small appliance catching fire or causing an issue. If an appliance (or appliances) were known to catch fire while plugged in, the manufacturer would issue a recall on these devices and pull them from the market. Small applliances are designed to be plugged in around the clock. The iron is the only exception to this rule.
HER: My father was a volunteer firefighter for many years and has experience in fire prevention and home safety tips that we need to follow. It only takes a moment to pull a plug from the wall and it could prevent a house fire.
Can someone please help us put this discussion to rest? It’s not a matter of pride or anything…I’m just lazy and don’t like continually plugging appliances back in as I need them. It wears not only on the outlet but also on the plug itself.
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