I've only just found this reply!
I've never heard it called a "power strip" before. To me it's an extension lead, which I'm already using. Most extension leads have more than one socket. To make matters worse, the switch on the wall socket is stuck in the ON position!
Suggest you don't use paper clips anywhere near mains electricity.
We call them power boards up in the south of the globe. You can get them with surge protectors to protect your equipment. I always plug all my precious electronics through a surge protector power board (or strip in USA)
