Apple has recently released a service advisory cautioning users about the dangers of sleeping on a charging device. The company warns that this could lead to fires, electric shocks, injuries, or damage to the phone and surrounding property. This announcement is particularly significant given that nearly 1.5 million people around the globe use iPhones, with 64% of American users charging their phones overnight.
This means that close to a billion people could be at some level of risk of igniting a fire every night, no matter how small.
Apple notes that its devices and USB power adapters can become hot during charging, which could cause discomfort or even injury. The company advises users to be cautious and avoid situations where their skin is in direct contact with a device, its power adapter, or a wireless charger for extended periods while these are connected to a power source. Apple’s statement specifically recommends not sleeping on a device, power adapter, or wireless charger or placing them under blankets, pillows, or close to the body while charging. They further advise keeping these items in a well-ventilated area during use or while charging.
Additionally, Apple advises against charging devices near liquids and urges users to dispose of damaged chargers immediately. The company emphasized that using faulty cables or chargers, or charging when moisture is present, could lead to fire, electric shock, injury, or damage to the iPhone or other property.
Apple also highlighted the increased risk of fire associated with using third-party chargers, especially those that may not meet the safety standards of Apple’s official products. The company recommends using chargers that are paired with “Made for iPhone” cables, which comply with global safety standards.
The tech giant isn't alone in raising alarms about the dangers of charging devices overnight. A fire department in Kent, England, has also issued warnings to iPhone users about the risks associated with “sleep-charging.”
In a viral TikTok video, a fire safety expert from Kent Fire & Rescue explained the dangers: “We receive many inquiries about why it's unsafe to charge phones overnight. The reasons are clear: First, when you're asleep, you can't smell smoke, so if a fire starts, it may not wake you. Second, it only takes a few breaths of smoke to render you unconscious. Third, many people use cheap or faulty chargers, and even genuine ones have been known to cause fires.”
Despite warnings from both Apple and fire departments, changing the public's charging habits may prove challenging. For those skeptical about the risks, a video from Green Township, Ohio, shows an iPhone 4 spontaneously catching fire on a countertop, underscoring the potential dangers.
Older iPhones are more prone to catching fire as their lithium batteries age and expand. The chemical reactions within these batteries, which provide power, can deteriorate over time, producing gas that can lead to combustion. “We were incredibly fortunate to avoid a house fire,” Brian Leisgang told WCPO, adding that a clean counter likely prevented further damage.