Odds are you probably plug your computer, monitor, speakers, etc. into a power strip. This makes perfect sense as it is convenient and works great. One thing to be aware of, though, are the empty/available plugs and where they are located with respect to your desk.

For example, last week I noticed my power strip was right next to the edge of my desk on the floor. This is fine, but I constantly keep either water or coffee on the same side of the desk. If I were to spill something (knock on wood), there is a very good chance that liquid could end up in the power strip and easily seep into the empty slots and short it out.

Depending on the power strip you have, a short may or may not damage your equipment. Many power strips have built in slides which will cover empty plugs, but it is best to make sure your power strip is far away from anything that can spill. It doesn’t need to be waterproof, but good positioning might help avoid a disaster and a fire hazard.