Extension Cords

Fast Facts About Extension Cords and Power Strips
Approximate Damage Caused by Extension Cords Between 1994 and 1998*
-6900 fires
-91 civilian deaths and 421 civilian injuries
- $115.9 million in direct property damage per year between 1994 and 1998
Inappropriate Use of Extension Cords
-Using as perm anent wiring
-Using unapproved extension cords
-Overloading power capabilities of the cord during temporary use
-Daisy chaining (plugging one extension cord into another and another, etc.)# Using one surge protector/power strip to power another
Basic Guidelines for the Appropriate Use of Extension Cords
-Cords must be properly approved (by Underwriters Laboratory, etc.)
-Approved cords must be for temporary use only (no more than 90 days)
-Extension cords m ay be used for remodeling and maintenance or repair of structures or equipment
-Cords used to light holiday decorations should be UL approved as used according to manufacturers’ recommendations. * Source: National Fire Protection Association