Extension cords and power strips are safe for most home and office electronics, but for many appliances, they can be a bad idea.

"Let's say you connect [an extension cord] to a floor heater," Martinez says, "the plug melts and it starts a fire. That's why you can't use extension cords and/or power strips for any appliances, because they should be used for electronics only."

Extension cords can be a great way to improve productivity and convenience, but it's important to know the dangers of what not to plug into one.