The charging habits that could be putting you at risk

Charge your phone under your pillow or leave your tumble dryer running overnight? Firefighters are warning people to think again this Electrical Fire Safety Week (February 2 to 8) as they reveal the hidden dangers behind some of the things we do every day.

It comes after County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) attended 220 electrical fires between January to December 2025 – a slight rise compared to the 196 crews attended during the same period in 2024.

Station Manager Billy McAloon said: “Lots of people charge their phones overnight, leave their tumble dryer running when they go to bed, or use extension leads to power multiple devices.

“But people need to be aware that these daily habits pose serious risk that could lead to a fire breaking out in their home.

“We’re asking people to never charge their electrical items overnight such as phones, laptops and other devices with lithium-ion batteries, like e-bikes and mobility scooters. 

“If you are charging a device, make sure it is on a solid surface and away from flammable materials. 

“Never charge your phone under your pillow or in bed.

“Always use the charger that came with your device or a compatible one and avoid counterfeit chargers that may fail to meet safety regulations.”

The Service is also urging people to unplug electrical items when they are fully charged and check charging cables and devices for any signs of damage.

Station Manager McAloon added: “It is so important to switch off your washing machine or tumble dryer when you leave the house or go to bed.

“You can also register such white goods and other electrical products with manufacturers to receive warranty and safety recall information.

“Remember, if you are using an extension lead, make sure they have individual switches and only buy from trusted suppliers.

“Never plug high-powered items, such as portable heaters, into extension leads.

“We need people to prioritise their safety over convenience and make these simple changes to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire.”

Residents can check how safe their home is and see if they are eligible for a free Home Fire Safety Visit by completing the national Safelincs assessment here.

For more electrical safety advice click here.

Here are some top electrical safety tips from CDDFRS:

• Never charge electrical items overnight including phones, laptops, and other devices with lithium-ion batteries, such as e-bikes and mobility scooters. 
• Charge devices on a solid surface and use the charger that came with your device or a compatible one.
• Do not leave devices plugged in overnight or continuously on charge after the charge cycle is complete.  
• Never plug high-powered items, such as portable heaters, into extension leads. 

• Ensure you keep devices plugged into extension leads to a minimum and never daisy chain them.
• Avoid using older ‘cube’ style adaptors.

• Register white goods, such as tumble dryers and washing machines, and other electrical products, with manufacturers for warranty and recall information.