This is due to the fact that without some sophisticated electroics, a circuit once built will behave reliably in terms of resistance and power consumption. We also know that flowing current is the function of voltage over resistance (I=U/R). Armed with that knowledge, let's tackle this problem.
Devices are built to utilize a specific supply voltage, and their components are selected precisely to fit it. If the device itself isn't adapted to voltage variations, then:
- too high a voltage will cause component (and subsequently, device) failure, as components burn out or even explode (incidentally, this is also why frequent voltage spikes cause incandescent light bulbs, television and radio sets (among other things) to fail prematurely), and
- too low a voltage will cause a brownout (not enough current flowing through the device to ensure reliable operation) - and this may lead to device failure as well... not to mention that many protective components are also tailored to the typical supply voltage and may lose their function in such situations; mains voltage rarely loses its killing potential, however.
As many of our electronics are built with a very specific voltage in mind, most of them would fail spectacularily in case of significant variations of mains voltage.
This mindset includes their protection mechanisms as well! CRT television sets, microwave ovens, boilers and heaters would all be potentially extra prone to dangerous failures in such cases (leading to exposure to x-rays, microwaves, and dangerous voltages, respectively). These devices are well protected from such problems mainly due to this potential, but no protection is perfect.
Not to mention that electrical grids are constructed toward a specific operating voltage range as well (as are cables) - significant, prolonged overvoltage might cause them to melt or to catch fire.
Which is why the prevention of such problems requires the cooperation of your power company as well.
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