17 Extension Cord Safety Tips: Do’s and Don’ts for Any Situation

It’s the time of the year when many of us head to our closets to unearth the extension cords to power up our holiday decorations! Whether it’s spooky lights or a shimmery December display, extension cords make decorating a breeze. However, it’s important to remember that these devices can pose serious safety hazards if not used correctly. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 17 extension cord safety tips to help you avoid mishaps this time of year. By following our guidelines, you can operate your cords safely and efficiently.

17 Extension Cord Safety Tips

Extension cords are convenient tools that can help us expand our reach and plug in electrical devices anywhere we need them. However, using them safely is important to prevent accidents and injuries. 

1. Only purchase cords approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
2. Don’t overload extension cords with too many appliances. The cord can overheat and possibly cause a fire.
3. Plug major appliances, such as refrigerators, dryers, and washers, directly into a wall receptacle outlet.
4. Check the maximum capacity of the extension cord and appliance or tool you’re using, and make sure you don’t exceed it.
5. Fully insert an extension cord plug (or any plug, for that matter) into an outlet.
6. Unplug cords when you’re not using them. Pull on the plug to safely unplug a cord, NOT on the cord itself.
7. Use extension cords only temporarily. Don’t substitute them for permanent wiring.
8. Don’t run cords through water or snow to avoid the high risk of electric shock.
9. Don’t run cords through ceilings, walls, doorways, or floors. Never place cords under carpets, either. Covered cords allow little heat to escape and pose a fire hazard.
10. Keep cords out of the path of foot traffic to prevent tripping. Don’t leave cords dangling anywhere where they can be pulled down and tripped over.
11. If you use too many extension cords, your home may not have enough outlets. Have a qualified electrician install additional outlets.
12. Avoid chaining multiple extension cords. Plug cords directly into mounted electrical receptacles and use cords that are long enough for your needs.
13. Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. Only use the cords marked for outdoor use.
14. Inspect cords before using them. If a cord heats up or is damaged in any way, discard it.
15. Always use cords with polarized and/or three-prong plugs. Don’t force a three-prong plug into two-prong outlets. Don’t remove or bend the ground pin to force a fit.
16. When using cord-bundling devices, such as spiral wire wrap, avoid cramming cords together to prevent damaging the cord’s insulation.
17. Never use staples or nails to attach cords to a surface like a wall to prevent puncturing the cord’s insulation.

Don’t Let Fire Damage Ruin Your Holiday Season! Call PuroClean Restoration of Chatham-Kent Today

The fear of a fire in your home can be an overwhelming and stressful thought. The potential loss of your belongings and the safety of your loved ones is enough to keep anyone up at night. Here at PuroClean Restoration of Chatham-Kent, we are committed to ensuring that your holiday season remains bright and enjoyable, no matter what life throws your way. With our state-of-the-art technology and expertise, we will restore any fire damage to your home as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our skilled technicians are available 24/7, so don’t hesitate to call us at (519) 628-5655 for fire damage remediation in Chatham-Kent, ON.