I strongly advise against sticking a fork or any metal object into a toaster, even if it's unplugged. Here's why:
Risk of Electric Shock: While the toaster may be unplugged, there could still be residual electrical charges stored in the components. If you insert a metal fork or object into the toaster and it makes contact with any electrical components, you could receive an electric shock.
Damage to the Toaster: Inserting a fork into the toaster, even when unplugged, can damage the heating elements or other internal components. Toasters are not designed to be poked with metal objects, and doing so can lead to malfunctions or potential hazards when you use the toaster in the future.
Personal Safety: Using a fork to retrieve hot toast can be dangerous. You might accidentally knock the toast out of the toaster and burn yourself, or the fork may not provide a secure grip on the toast, leading to a dropping hazard.
Instead of using a fork, consider using safer alternatives to retrieve hot toast:
Tongs: Long-handled kitchen tongs are a great tool for grabbing hot toast safely.
Heat-resistant Oven Mitts or Gloves: Invest in a good pair of heat-resistant oven mitts or gloves that will protect your hands from the heat while grabbing the toast.
Wait for It to Cool: Give the toast a bit of time to cool down before trying to handle it. Most toasters have a lever or tray that allows you to lift the toast slightly, making it easier to grab without sticking anything inside.
Always prioritize safety when dealing with hot appliances or objects. It's better to wait a little longer for the toast to cool or use appropriate tools to handle it safely than to risk injury or damage to your toaster.