Actually the element in our already temperamental oven blew up last year with a heck of a bang - being cautious types we had to call out the FB as it was smoking incessantly and looked like it was going to catch fire. They advised us the same thing- never go out and leave the oven on or even one of the appliances which can be programmed to come on when you are out.

Ovens apart, I tend to rely on having a modern ccu with circuit breakers to prevent any major incidents. I thought that this dispensed with the unrealistic need to unplug absolutely every appliance every time you went out. It would take all day.

Thanks for the recommendations re slow cookers. I have just cooked a lamb tagine in 2 hours at a fairly low heat, and it was delicious. I believe its a good way to cook a whole chicken so thats next on the list...