Extension Cord Safety Tips to Prevent Holiday Hazards

As we welcome the seasonal shift, many of us eagerly prepare our homes for the upcoming holidays. One thing that is sure to play a big role in our decoration plans is the trusty extension cord. However, it’s important to remember that these cords can pose a serious safety hazard if not used correctly. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of 17 extension cord safety tips to help you avoid any mishaps. Whatever you decide to use them for, our tips will ensure you use your extension cords in the safest and most efficient way possible.

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, knowing extension cord safety tips can help you utilize them in a safer fashion. 

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.

Turn to the Experts at PuroClean Professional Restoration For Professional Fire Damage Restoration

A fire can turn your seasonal fun into a disaster! When you’re left with the damage, PuroClean Professional Restoration is here to provide efficient restoration services you can trust. Our team of experts uses state-of-the-art technology to remediate your home and get you back to enjoying the holidays. As “The Paramedics of Property Damage™,” we are available for you 24/7, so please call (425) 595-3443 now for fire damage remediation in Everett.