Safe Use Of Extension Cords

Using an extension cord can become risky if not used properly. You need to be more cautious if you have a small baby at your home. Small babies generally put the extension cord in their mouth and result in a very horrible situation. Use of a damaged or overloaded extension can also result into a serious accident. If you want to prevent yourself and your family from all these accidents, you need to follow some instructions that are mentioned below.

An extension cord should always be used for a temporary purpose and never for a permanent supply. When an extension cord gets cracked or worn, replace it immediately with a new one as a cracked extension cord can give you a hazardous shock. Try to take an extension cord that have the listing of a nationally-recognized testing laboratory, safety closures, and other safety features.

With polarized appliances always use a polarized extension cord. If your extension cord lacks a safety closure then cover unused outlets with electrical tape or with plastic caps to prevent the chance of a child making contact with the live circuit.

While using the extension cord, put all the plugs tightly inside the socket so that no space is uncovered. Carefully remove the plug of an appliance inserted inside the extension cord and keep your children away from it.

In case you have to connect a heavy appliance (air conditioner, electric heaters and refrigerators) with your extension cord then use a special extension cord that can bear that load. For appliances with three-prong plugs always use three-wire extension cords. Third prong reduces the chances of a shock.

Sometimes due to voltage ups and downs or overuse of extension cord, the wires become hot and start melting from inside due to overheating. This situation may turn out into a fire. To avoid that, cut the main supply right away. Keep on checking the extension cord and when your extension cord becomes hot, stop using it.

A coiled or looped extension cord should never be used as it is more susceptible to cause an accident. Covering the extension cord with newspapers, clothing, or any object when it is being used can cause a fire. So always avoid that. Never fix the extension cord on any baseboard using a nail or staples as it could be risky.

Never put the extension cord in your way and keep them aside where they don't disturb your movements. Overloading of extension cords should always be avoided as it is very hazardous.