As my name suggests I am into vintage/antique furnishings and appliances. I have toasters, sandwich presses, cooking pots, blenders, even a fridge all from the 50s or mid century era. I don't know a whole lot about appliances but the things I have are electric and none of the cords are frayed. Friends keep saying don't use these things because they are 'too old' and are 'dangerous.' So, do I have to give up my vintage appliances out of safety? :(

No, of course not. Don't listen to them. Except for a vintage microwave oven, if you have one of the really early ones. Fridges will consume twice the electricity the newest ones do, but that's about it.

The biggest problem with "old" appliances is energy use, finding parts and frayed cords which are the biggest issue since many of them contain asbestos wrapping. You can get replacement cords at HD or Lowe's or other places. Keep the vintage stuff working. I have a 1950's sears dehumidifier that still runs well. Not as efficient as new ones but I'll keep it going until it dies and then strip it and recycle parts.