Extension Cord Safety

From Christmas lights to the family computer many of us use extension cords daily without a thought. They provide many conveniences around the home. However they can also be your worst nightmare when they are abused. Problem is that many of us do not know what this abuse is.

Over the years extension cords have resulted and many injuries and fatalities. It’s estimated that each year about 4,000 people are hurt by these modern amenities according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSO). They have resulted in trip hazards, shocks, and fires. Many children have been seriously hurt or killed by placing the end of an extension cord in their mouth while it was plugged into an outlet. As a result the National Electrical Code (NEC) and voluntary industry safety standards like the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) have made changes to enhance extension cord safety.  You may have noticed these days your general use extension cords are made of heavier wire (#16 gauge wires) and have permanent safety enclosures over the female end of the cord.

Still human error cannot be removed. It is important to use extension cords properly, especially in older homes that have limited outlets. Some basic safety tips include; never using indoor cords outside, never using a cord longer than required, not overloading and cord, and reading the manufacturer’s instructions.

The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has some of the following safety instructions:

• Look for the UL Mark on extension cords you purchase. The UL Mark means that representative samples of the cord have been tested for foreseeable safety hazards.
• Store all cords indoors when not in use. Outdoor conditions can deteriorate a cord over time.
• Never keep an extension cord plugged in when not in use. The cord will still conduct electricity until it is unplugged from the outlet.
• Make sure to use the covers for any of the cord’s outlets that are not being used. Children and pets face serious injury if they chew on unused outlets or stick sharp metal objects into the openings.
• Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged. Touching even a single exposed strand of wire can give you an electric shock or burn.
• Never file or cut the plug blades or grounding pin of an extension cord or appliance to plug it into an old outlet.
• As a safety feature, extension cords and most appliances have polarized plugs (one blade wider than the other). These special plugs are designed to prevent electric shock by properly aligning circuit conductors. If a plug does not fit, have a qualified electrician install a new outlet.

If you follow recommended safety tips and common sense you can avoid costly damage to your home and the well being of your family and friends.