No, microwaves cannot harm people when they are turned off or unplugged. When a microwave is turned off or unplugged, it is completely inactive, and there is no electromagnetic radiation being emitted.
Microwave ovens use electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range to cook or heat food. The microwaves are generated by a magnetron inside the microwave oven when it is powered on. These microwaves are contained within the oven's metal cavity and are absorbed by the food, causing the water molecules in the food to vibrate and generate heat.
However, once the microwave is turned off or unplugged, the generation of microwaves stops, and the radiation ceases immediately. There is no residual radiation or danger associated with a turned-off or unplugged microwave oven.
It is essential to ensure that microwave ovens are in good working condition, with no damage to the door or door seal, to prevent any leakage of microwave radiation when the oven is in use. But when it is turned off or unplugged, there is no risk of harm to people.