Follow these safety tips to keep electrical cords in good condition including the use of extension cords

Professional, Quality
​Electrical Work

Safety Tips for the use of all electrical appliances

  1. Check cords regularly for frays, cracks or kinks, including power tool cords, holiday lights and extension cords.
  2. Cords are not be jump ropes, clothes lines or leashes, and should never be used for anything other than their intended purpose.
  3. Cords should be firmly plugged into outlets. If the cord is loose and can pull out easily, choose a different, more snug outlet.
  4. Cords should not be placed beneath rugs where they can become a trip hazard or where frays will not be noticeable. Furthermore, covering a cord will prevent it from keeping as cool as possible.
  5. Do not make modifications to a cords plug at any time. Do not clip off the third prong or attempt to file down a wider prong to fit in an outlet.
  6. Extension cords are a temporary solution only and their use should be minimized whenever possible.
  7. Use the proper weight and length of extension cord for the appropriate task, and be sure the cord is rated for indoor or outdoor use, whichever is required.
  8. When unplugging a cord, pull on the cord at the outlet rather than tug on the cord itself.
  1. When buying electrical appliances, look for products that meet the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) standard for safety.
  2. Unplug unused appliances and stow cords safely out of reach of pets, young children or hazardous situations.
  3. Appliances that generate heat, such as clocks, televisions and computer monitors, should be given several inches of clearance all around for good air circulation and cooling. Do not drape clothes, toys or other items over warm appliances.
  4. Always follow appliance instructions carefully, and do not attempt amateur repairs or upgrades.
  5. Keep all electrical appliances away from water such as sinks, bathtubs, pools or overhead vents that may drip.
  6. Do not operate any electrical appliance with wet hands or while standing in water.
  7. Keep clothes, curtains, toys and other potentially combustible materials at least three feet away from radiators, space heaters, heating vents and other heat sources.