An expert warns Nigerians against charging phones in bed due to fire risk

An electrical safety educator, Patrick Okoye, has warned Nigerians against charging mobile phones on beds while sleeping, warning that the practice increases the risk of fire.

Okoye gave the warning during an electrical safety awareness program held in Awka on Saturday.

He explained that placing phones on beds, pillows or under blankets while charging traps heat and prevents adequate ventilation, which can cause devices to overheat.

According to him, prolonged overheating of mobile devices significantly increases the likelihood of fires, especially in closed sleeping environments.

“Many people don’t realize that charging a phone on their bed limits heat dissipation, making the device more likely to overheat,” he said.

Okoye also warned that the rainy season presents additional risks due to unstable power supply, lightning and frequent power surges.

He noted that such fluctuations can damage devices and increase the likelihood of fires while charging.

“During the rainy season, power fluctuations and lightning-related surges further increase the danger,” he added.

The security expert advised Nigerians to only charge their phones on hard, flat and non-flammable surfaces such as tables or desks.

It also recommended users unplug chargers once devices are fully charged to avoid overheating.

Okoye also warned against the use of damaged cables, counterfeit chargers and overloaded extension sockets, stressing that they pose serious electrical risks.

He urged schools, churches, community leaders and youth groups to step up awareness campaigns on electrical safety practices.

According to him, consistent public education remains critical to prevent avoidable fires and protect lives and property.

“Our goal is to prevent avoidable accidents. People should never sleep with their phone charging on their bed or under their pillow,” he said.