Plugs, Outlets, and Sockets

Most people would know that in different countries, there are different power outlets.  Why there wasn't a global standard set, I don't know.  It sure would make life a heck of a lot easier for travellers.

smarthome.com

At any rate, it is interesting to note the difference between American outlets and United Kingdom outlets.  For instance, besides the general shape, all British outlets have on/off switches.  Like light switches.  You must turn on the power to the outlet before you can turn on your appliance. 

mydeco.com

Furthermore, British outlets provide double the electricity than American outlets do.  For this reason, one must be careful of what they plug in from America, because if it doesn't have a build in adapter, (The little "box" or "brick" that is between the cord to the appliance and the cord to the outlet) you could end up with something frying.  I brought along a voltage adapter from home, just in case I needed it.  For a while I used it, then one night when I was going to bed, I heard the sound of a balloon popping.  I turned on the light to see the adapter smoking. 
This is generally bad news.
So I got up and unplugged it, as I did, smoke is billowing out, as is a bit of flame. 
I'm thinking, "Oh crap! The fire alarms are going to be tripped!"
So I open my window and stick it out. 
Then I think, "Why am I holding a fiery piece of plastic?!" And I throw it out the window.
Nothing happened, but I felt really lucky that I was in the room when it had malfunctioned.  Things could have gotten ugly otherwise...

wowktv.com