Why You Shouldn’t Charge Your Phone on the Bed While Sleeping

An electrical safety educator, Patrick Okoye, has warned Nigerians not to charge their phones on the bed while sleeping. He said this practice raises the risk of fire.

Mr Okoye shared this advice during an electrical safety awareness program on Saturday in Awka.

He explained that putting mobile phones on mattresses, pillows, or under blankets while charging can trap heat. This can make devices overheat and increase the chances of fires.

He pointed out that the risk is higher during the rainy season. Frequent thunderstorms, lightning, and unstable power supply can cause electrical surges.

"Many people do not realize that charging a phone on a bed restricts heat dissipation, making the device more likely to overheat.

"During the rainy season, frequent power fluctuations and lightning-related surges further increase the danger; simple safety habits can save lives and protect property," he said.

Mr Okoye suggested that people should charge their phones only on hard, flat, and non-flammable surfaces like tables or desks. He also urged them to unplug chargers once devices are fully charged.

He warned against using damaged charging cables, counterfeit chargers, and overloaded extension sockets.

According to him, practicing electrical safety should be a daily habit in homes.

The engineer also called on schools, churches, community leaders, and youth organizations to step up public awareness campaigns on electrical safety.

Mr Okoye believes that ongoing awareness is one of the best ways to prevent electrical fires and protect lives and property.

"Our goal is to prevent avoidable accidents. People should never sleep with a phone charging on the bed or under a pillow.

"Always charge your phone on a hard surface, away from flammable materials. Safety begins with simple decisions," he said.