At the beginning of September, Samsung announced a global recall of its Galaxy Note 7 on account of defective batteries. According to the company, 35 separate incidents have resulted in a Note 7's battery catching fire. Sales have stopped, and all devices already sold will be replaced by the company. Samsung advises users to return [...]

You should know the vast, vast majority of electrical fires are caused by overloading extension cords. Much of the electrical code is written specifically around rules for minimizing the chance that somebody will use one. The number is over 80% of electrical fires. Mike Holt has some stats published. The majority of electronics stay plugged [...]

Laptops and tablets should always be placed on a hard flat surface when charging. Never block the air vents on the backs or sides of a laptop. Bedding, pillows and blankets can easily block airflow and trap heat in the device, so never leave these items on a bed while sleeping, fire officials advise. Power [...]

Cell phone and tablet chargers need space to breathe, according to fire officials. These devices generate heat during charge cycles that must be dissipated by proper ventilation. Devices that are covered and unable to breathe may build up heat and lead to ignition. The lithium-ion batteries used in these devices have pressurized containers that may [...]