When most people think of fire safety, smoke alarms and keeping flammable items away from heat come to mind. But there’s another simple, often-overlooked precaution that can make a big difference—unplugging your kitchen appliances before bed. Even when switched off, high-heat appliances like air fryers, toaster ovens, and kettles can still pose a risk.

They may overheat, short-circuit, or spark during a power surge. And it’s not just the obvious ones coffee makers, blenders, and microwaves, especially if they’re older or poorly made, can malfunction too. Many devices quietly draw electricity even when idle. Over time, worn cords, damaged parts, or unexpected surges can turn that small energy draw into a fire hazard.

Even built-in safety features aren’t foolproof, especially if the appliance is low quality or hasn’t been maintained properly. The safest approach? Unplug small appliances after every useespecially anything that heats up.

For larger essentials like refrigerators, use surge protectors and check cords regularly for wear and tear. And if it’s time for an upgrade, choose higher-quality models with robust safety standards. It takes only seconds each night to pull the plug. Do it today, sleep easier tonight, and keep your home—and family safe.