Unplug cellphone chargers when not in use: Hudson Bay Fire Dept.

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The burn mark left on the floor from the cellphone charger. (Image Credit: Hudson Bay Fire Department/Facebook)

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The HBFD had several reminders, including unplugging chargers when they’re not in use, avoid leaving cords plugged in overnight or unattended, regularly check chargers for damage or wear, and using quality, certified charging equipment. 

“We’re sharing this as a reminder that something as small as a phone charger can become a serious risk,” they explained. “Stay safe and take those extra precautions at home.” 

According to Health Canada, there were 1,090 reports of incidents between June 20, 2011 and Dec. 31, 2022 involving products with a potential USB charger issue, including battery chargers, adapters, and portable electronic devices. Of those reports, 182 mentioned a charger, and 433 mentioned charging a product. It’s not known in the remaining 475 cases whether the problem happened while the devide was charging. Of the 1,090 reports, there were three reported deaths and 268 reported an injury.  

All three deaths were due to house fires, and of the injuries, 219 were burns.  

“Consumer product incidents reported to Health Canada do not always provide the details necessary to determine whether they involved the use of USB chargers or other products,” the Health Canada report updated in July of 2023 indicated. 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com