Electrical outlet/fire safety?

Question

If I have an electrical outlet that is hidden behind a bed (the bed is pushed right up against the outlet), but need to plug something into that outlet, is it safe to use that outlet or should I just get an extension cord?

Answer 1

The safest way is to use a short extension cord with a right-angle plug, available at any hardware store.

Answer 2

A right angle plug will protect the cord from damage but the problem with outlets is that they can have a poor contact with the plug's prongs and this can cause heat, sparks, and fire if there is something in the immediate vicinity that is combustible, like bedding.