There’s no doubt you probably have an extension lead at home but if it’s in your kitchen, there’s one thing you need to bear in mind. You should reconsider keeping this item in your kitchen with experts warning of a “hidden hazard”. Safety specialists at Crusader Fire have shared one must-know tip for your home.

Fire hazards can occur even when you think things are safe at home so it’s important to ensure you’re taking extra precautions where you can. With over 20,000 electrical fires in UK homes each year, experts have advised on what you can do to keep your home safe.

If you often find yourself surrounded by kitchen gadgets but not enough plug sockets to power them all, you’re not alone. 

Air fryers, coffee machines, stand mixers, and toasters now crowd many people's countertops, and with limited plug space, some homeowners are turning to extension leads as a quick fix. But according to Jonny, this everyday solution could carry serious risks. 

With UK households relying more than ever on countertop gadgets, Jonny says that extension cords in the kitchen are “an accident waiting to happen”.

He also says common appliances and devices like air fryers and kettles can easily overload extension cords, risking heat build-up, appliance damage, and even fire. He said: “Small kitchen appliances such as microwaves, kettles, air fryers, and even mixers are high-wattage items that draw a large amount of power from the mains.

“Plugging several into a single extension lead can easily overload it, leading to dangerous heat build-up and, in the worst cases, an electrical fire.”

Most household extension cords are not designed to handle the combined wattage of multiple kitchen appliances, he warns.

When overloaded, extension cords can overheat, melt, and become a serious fire hazard. 

Even if the cord doesn’t ignite, it may suffer internal damage that goes unnoticed until it’s too late. 

Accidentally getting an extension lead wet or having it close to a stove while cooking could cause a serious electrical fire risk.

The fire specialist said: “A typical kitchen appliance, like a kettle, can draw around 2,800 watts alone. 

“If you’re plugging in a few of those, you’re exceeding what most leads are safely rated for. 

“The cord may not trip the fuse immediately, but the heat build-up over time is a major concern.”

This warning comes amid a stark national backdrop: more than 20,000 accidental house fires are caused by electrical faults each year in the UK, according to official fire service data. 

Kitchens, where water, heat, and electricity frequently mix, are among the most common sources.

Aside from fire risks, Jonny says there’s also the problem of unstable voltage. “Extension leads can cause drops in voltage when too many appliances are running simultaneously,” he said.

“This inconsistency in power flow isn’t just bad for the lead, it can also affect the lifespan and performance of your appliances, especially those with sensitive electronics.” 

Devices like coffee machines and digital air fryers rely on a steady current. When that flow is disrupted by overloaded extension cords, it can cause system faults, premature wear, or complete failure.

Rather than taking the risk, fire safety experts recommend long-term solutions that prioritise safety and efficiency. 

Jonny advises homeowners to promptly make a decision and invest in a proper electrical setup that suits modern kitchen demands.

“If you’re short on plug sockets, speak to a qualified electrician about having additional outlets installed in appropriate areas,” he suggests.

“This is far safer than relying on a temporary workaround that could ultimately put your home and family at risk.”

Fire safety do’s and don’ts for the kitchen

Do

• Use appliances with clear wattage ratings and check them before plugging multiple items in

• Ensure any extension lead used in the home is BS-certified (British Standards)

• Unplug devices when not in use to avoid passive power draw

Don't

• Daisy-chain extension leads (plugging one into another)

• Use extension leads for permanent kitchen setups

• Run leads behind appliances or under rugs where heat can build up

• Ignore signs of wear and tear, frayed cords and scorch marks are red flags