Power Strips

What They Are: Aptly named devices that provide an additional four to six grounded (three-prong) outlets.

Where to Use: With most basic household items and small appliances. But don't use them in a bathroom; moisture and open outlets are a dangerous combination.

The Catch: The total wattage of the items plugged into the strip should never exceed the strip's maximum wattage capacity.

Surge-Protection Strips

What They Are: Power strips equipped to suppress spikes in your home's electricity.

Where to Use: With computers and their accessories, audio-video components, telephones and answering machines, and any other gadgets or appliances that store information that could be lost through a power surge.

The Catch: They work only when plugged into a grounded (three-prong) outlet and cost about twice as much as a regular power strip.