The headlines said it all, “Laptop explodes in flames.” At a conference in Japan in June 2006, an attendee’s computer caught on fire. One of his neighbours snapped a couple of pics, which circulated rapidly around the world online. With flames engulfing the laptop within minutes, and subsequently the tablecloth, commenters remarked how fortunate it was that the computer was not on its owner’s lap at the time.

Many laptop manufacturer’s now recommend that you don’t set your computer on any part of your body (I know, we all do, I’ve got mine resting on my knees at this very moment). Although it is unlikely that the device will burst into flames, there is no doubt that many models get extremely hot (sometimes up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit) as we play games, operate multiple applications, or block the internal fan. Fortunately, there are some inexpensive ways to keep your lap cool while computing.

The Targus Notebook Chill Mat ($39.99)

This device will keep the temperature down with two fans, which use the power from your USB port.  At 1.3 lbs, the Chill Mat is light enough to take along with you on the road. Your computer sits on top of some well-placed non-skid rubber, so it won’t slip and slide while you work away.  Although this is a great product, it's also one of the most expensive on this list.

Belkin Laptop Cooling Pad ($29.99)

This nicely designed product uses USB power and sits under your laptop to increase circulation. With its wave-like shape, it is sturdy enough to support your computer while keeping some space open where your laptop gets the hottest. Unlike some pads that are big and bulky, this accessory is slim enough to fit in most computer bags (and weighs approximately one pound). Although this feature has nothing to do with keeping your lap from catching on fire, the Belkin Laptop Cooling Pad comes in black and white, so you can stay cool (in a fashionable way!).

Xpad4Laptop (US$24.99)

Unlike the Targus and Belkin devices, this laptop cooler does not use fans. Instead, the Xpad sits under your computer and allows for an open ventilation channel. In other words, it simply allows for better laptop heat airflow. Better yet, it does not require any power so there is no drain on your computer battery and there is no extra fan noise. At less than one pound, the Xpad uses rubber pads to keep your laptop firmly in place.