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As summer vacation approaches, homeowners are reminded to take crucial safety measures before leaving their residences. One often-overlooked step is unplugging electronic devices, which not only conserves energy but also significantly reduces the risk of fires while the house is unoccupied.
Many electronics consume standby power, which can account for up to ten percent of a home’s total electricity usage. This continuous power draw can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards, particularly with devices that are left plugged in for extended periods.
To enhance safety, homeowners should prioritize unplugging the following five types of electronics before departing:
1. **Battery Chargers**: Common in many households, chargers for lithium-ion batteries found in e-bikes, laptops, and cordless tools should be unplugged. The National Fire Protection Association advises against leaving these batteries on charge once fully powered, especially overnight or when away, as they can overheat and pose fire risks.
2. **Space Heaters**: While space heaters provide comfort during colder months, they can be dangerous if left plugged in without supervision. These devices are a leading cause of home fires. It is essential to unplug space heaters and ensure they are stored away from flammable materials before leaving the home.
3. **Countertop Appliances**: Kitchen appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and electric kettles can generate significant heat and are susceptible to ignition from residual food particles or electrical malfunctions. Unplugging these devices before a trip is a simple yet effective safety measure.
4. **Home Entertainment Systems**: Devices such as flat-screen TVs, game consoles, and audio systems draw power even when switched off, contributing to standby power consumption. Unplugging these devices can save energy and protect them from potential voltage spikes. Using a surge-protected power strip can simplify this process.
5. **Hairstyling Tools**: Items like curling irons and hair dryers can easily be forgotten but pose a serious fire hazard if left plugged in. Unplugging these tools after use and before departure is essential, particularly if they are stored in areas like bathrooms, which should have ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for added safety.
Incorporating these unplugging habits into a pre-travel checklist can help ensure a safe and energy-efficient home while away. Taking these preventative measures minimizes fire risks and contributes to lower electricity bills, allowing homeowners peace of mind during their vacations.
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