Overview

• James Harrison of Fusion Electrical advises treating extension leads as temporary rather than a permanent power source in kitchens.
• Plugging multiple high‑wattage gadgets such as kettles, toasters or air fryers into one lead can exceed its rating and cause dangerous heat buildup.
• Damage often develops inside the cable with warning signs like scorch marks, heat or a burning smell appearing only once risk is high, so unplug and discard any suspect lead.
• Households are urged to check appliance wattage, use British Standards‑marked products, keep leads away from sinks or hobs, and have a qualified electrician install extra outlets if sockets are short.
• A separate expert says kettles, heaters and toasters should go directly into wall sockets, warns against cheap or cube‑type adaptors, and recommends fully unwinding drum leads during use.