Understanding extension cords rules

Extension cords come with warnings and usage guidelines just like every other consumer product. Some of the best advice comes from fire departments and the Consumer Product Safety Council, both of which have experience with the injuries and destruction caused by misuse of extension cords and power strips. Here’s a list of extension cord do’s and don’ts:

• Use extension cords for temporary use only.
• Unplug extension cords when they’re not in use.
  
• Only use cords having gauges that are properly matched to the load and the current to be drawn.
• Only use cords outside that are specifically marked for this type of use.
• Only use polarized receptacles with polarized cords.
  
• Never remove the grounding prong from the plug of an extension cord to fit it into an ungrounded receptacle.
• Regularly inspect your cords for damage.
• Never splice a damaged extension cord or one cord to another.
• Do not run cords across or through wet areas or puddles.
  
• Hang cords high off the floor to avoid tripping hazards on work sites. Don’t allow cords to hang from counter- or tabletops where children can pull on them.
  
• Cover any unused sections of the cord’s outlet end with safety caps to keep children from inserting objects.
• Replace damaged or worn cords.
• Always stretch out the cord, and never cover it with rugs, carpets, clothing, or heavy objects. Cords can build up heat if they are used when coiled or looped.
  
• Extension cords are temporary wiring. Don’t attach them to walls or woodwork with staples or nails that can damage the cord and present a fire hazard.
• Don’t plug extension cords together. Instead, use a single cord long enough to do the job on its own.
• Buy cords that have been tested by an approved testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL).