Use Extension Cords With Caution & Care

2/23/2017 (Permalink)

Extension cords are a very useful and common household item that, if not used with care, can pose a threat in the home. According to SixWise.com, there are three main risks presented with the use of extension cords:

1. Fires
2. Electrical Burns
3. Tripping

Fires

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that extension cords cause about 3300 residential fires each year. These fires are caused by short circuits, damaged cords, and overloading cords. These risks can be avoided by regularly checking and replacing old, damaged cords, not overloading cords or sockets, not running cords under rugs or near heaters, and just being aware when using extension cords for overheating.

Electrical Burns

According to the CPSC, electrical burns to the mouth accounted for half of the extension cord related injuries to young children. Plugs, outlets and cords can be very intriguing to young children who do not realize they are dangerous. Keep all extension cords out of reach of children!

Tripping

The CPSC claims that about half of extension cord related injuries involve fractures, lacerations, contusions, or sprains from people tripping over the extension cords and that the elderly are the most at risk for this type of injury. The solution to avoid this risk is to simply avoid placing extension cords in areas where people walk. Instead, run cords along walls or thread them behind tables or other furniture where they are out of the way.

Most people do not consider the dangers of extension cords until something actually goes wrong. Don’t make that mistake…Use your extension cords with caution and care!