We don't watch the show, but we've heard the show This is Us caused quite the stir for Crock Pot and leaving them unattended. While it is probably safest to be home while the Crock Pot is running, the Crock Pot customer service assures that it is safe to leave it unattended while not at home. I've done it my whole life and never had an issue, but you just never know I guess!