Extension cords are one of the most commonly used household items in America — and one of the most misused. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates there are about 4,600 residential home fires each year associated with extension cords, killing approximately 70 people and injuring about 230 others annually. Beyond fires, another 2,200 shock-related injuries occur with extension cords every year. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, and damaged extension cords are equally dangerous.
What Causes Extension Cord Fires?
Fires associated with extension cords most commonly start because of short circuits, overloading by plugging in too many products, and damaged cords. Overheating can occur at the plug, at the socket, or over the entire length of the cord. Hot plugs and sockets are often caused by deteriorated connections to the cord’s wires.
Prevent Overloading
- If any part of the extension cord is hot while in use, it is a warning sign that it may be overloaded. Check if the extension cord is properly rated for the products plugged into it. Inspect the cord along its entire length to ensure it has not been damaged.
- Do not overload your extension cord by using it to power appliances beyond its capacity. Check the capacity or rating by looking at the tag on the cord or its packaging.
Protect Extension Cords from Damage
- Do not run extension cords under carpets, through doorways, or under furniture.
- Only use an extension cord outdoors if it is specifically marked for outdoor use.
- Never alter a cord to change its length or perform inadequate repairs such as taping up damaged insulation. Do not trim, cut, or alter the plug blades in any way.
- Unplug an extension cord when it is not in use. The cord is energized when plugged in and can overheat if shorted.
Discard Older Extension Cords
- Discard cords that are old and/or missing important safety features, including safety closures, polarized blades, and a large plug face that covers the outlet’s slots and is easy to grasp.
- Extension cords should be at least 16 AWG, unless they are 18 AWG with fuse protection. AWG refers to the size of the wires in the cord, and the wire size is imprinted on the cord’s surface.
- Check cords to make sure they have been listed by a recognized national testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL), or CSA-International (CSA).
- Extension cords should only be used temporarily and are not intended as permanent household wiring.
