Extension Cord Safety

• Inspect & Protect. Check extension cords for damage. Replace - don’t attempt to fix - cords that have been cut or damaged.
• Check the cord’s electrical capacity and do not overload it.
• If a cord or plug is warm or hot to the touch, unplug it immediately.
• Polarized plugs have one blade wider than the other and should only be used with polarized extension cords.
• Use heavy-duty three-prong extension cord for tools with three-prong plugs. Never remove or bend back the third prong.
• Use only extension cords that are approved by a recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• When outdoors, use extension cords designed for outdoor use.
• Plug outdoor electric lights and decorations into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) outlets.
• Keep extension cords away from moisture, heat, and metal pipes.
• Never puncture insulation of electrical cords by nailing them to any surfaces.
• Never place electrical cords across traffic areas or under carpets.
• Don’t pinch electrical cords behind or under furniture.
• Don’t use extension cords as permanent wiring.
• Make sure your tools are turned off before connecting them to an extension cord.
• When disconnecting the cord, pull the plug rather than the cord itself.
• Unplug and put away extension cords that are not being used.