'Pull the plug': Warning issued over common mistake which could have devasting consequences

A warning has been issued to households across Ireland about the dangers of leaving electrical products plugged in when you leave your home.

Highlighting one recent incident, Dublin Fire Brigade took to social media to warn that the 'common mistake' could risk your house being burned down or seriously damaged. 

In a post on X, they said: "A good habit is to unplug when you are finished with an item. Unplugging is easier to remember than switching off. Pull the plug when you're done."

Attached to the post was a photo of a severely burned window sill with a hair straightener that was left plugged in while on top of it.

A good habit is to unplug when you are finished with an item.

Unplugging is easier to remember than switching off.

Pull the plug when you're done. pic.twitter.com/rAXXxBzQAP

— Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) June 12, 2025

Luckily enough, it seems no further damage was done to the surrounding areas but it could have been much worse if the device was left at another location unattended, such as near clothing or carpet.

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One person who viewed the post commented, "Girls and ladies be wide to the risks we don't even think about until it's too late".

Irish homeowners are being urged to be more vigilant when leaving the house and to remember to plug out all electrical appliances following this incident.