# Household electronic device safety guidelines

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/household-electronic-device-safety-guidelines
> Updated: 2026-08-08T05:48:54.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Guidelines have been established regarding the protection of household electronics from electrical surges and improper placement.

To mitigate risks during thunderstorms, experts recommend unplugging sensitive devices with complex circuitry, such as computers, televisions, and routers. Conversely, large appliances like refrigerators and freezers should generally remain plugged in to prevent food spoilage, unless flooding or official power shutdowns are imminent. 

Additional safety measures include avoiding the use of thin extension cords for heavy appliances to prevent overheating and fire hazards, ensuring proper grounding of electrical systems, and utilizing surge protectors, though these may not protect against direct lightning strikes.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-08: Electronic device protection and placement safety

Protecting home electronics from improper placement and storm-induced power surges requires unplugging sensitive devices like TVs and computers while leaving large appliances like refrigerators running.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/electronic-device-protection-and-placement-safety

### 2026-08-05: Guidelines for unplugging home devices during thunderstorms

Experts recommend unplugging TVs, computers, routers and similar electronics during thunderstorms, while refrigerators can stay on unless flooding or official shutdowns occur; avoid extension cords and ensure a

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/guidelines-for-unplugging-home-devices-during-thunderstorms

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Cite as: Household electronic device safety guidelines. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/household-electronic-device-safety-guidelines