Smart Extension Cord Safety Tips to Prevent Fires at Home

Decorating season is in full swing! Maybe you have elaborate plans to usher in the spooky chills with outdoor Halloween items, or you’re deciding what your December scene will look like. Whatever you arrange, you’ll likely rely on an extension cord or two (or several) to plug things in. However, they pose a serious fire risk if misused. To ensure your end-of-the-year fun doesn’t end in a disaster, we’ve compiled a list of 17 extension cord safety tips to remember. Make the most of your holidays safely!

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.

Contact the Team at PuroClean of Redmond/Woodinville for Prompt Fire Damage Restoration Services

When a fire strikes, count on having an experienced team who can get you back on your feet quickly! PuroClean of Redmond/Woodinville provides 24/7 fire damage restoration using state-of-the-art equipment and methods to return your residential or commercial property to its pre-loss condition. Don’t delay getting help from the pros! Our skilled technicians are available 24/7, so please call (425) 488-7688 for fire damage remediation in Woodinville.