With the holidays in full swing, homeowners are decorating, lighting, and plugging in more than ever. While extension cords make it easy to power festive lights and decorations, they can also pose significant safety risks if not used properly.
Here’s a helpful guide you can share with your clients to ensure they use extension cords safely this holiday season—and beyond. Providing timely tips like these strengthens your relationships and showcases you as a trusted resource.
Extension Cord Safety Tips
1. Choose the Right Cord
- Use cords rated for the job: indoor cords for inside use and weather-resistant cords for outdoor decorations.
2. Inspect Before Use
- Check for frayed wires, cracked insulation, or damaged plugs. Damaged cords should be replaced immediately.
3. Avoid Overloading
- Do not exceed the wattage rating of the cord or the outlet. Overloaded cords can overheat and cause fires.
4. Keep Cords Visible
- Never run cords under rugs, carpets, or furniture, as this can cause overheating and damage.
5. Secure Cords Properly
- Use clips or hooks to secure cords instead of staples or nails, which can pierce insulation and expose wires.
6. Limit Connection Lengths
- Avoid connecting multiple extension cords. Instead, use one long cord rated for the required distance.
7. Unplug When Not in Use
- Always unplug cords when they’re not in use or before leaving the house.
Sharing these tips with your clients ensures they can enjoy the season safely and without worry. If you’d like pre-designed materials or social media-ready content for easy sharing, let me know—I’d be happy to assist.
Wishing you and your clients a safe, bright, and happy holiday season!
(Photo courtesy of Umatilla County Fire District No.1 & Fox New Detroit)
The Fire Department issued this warning:
“The weather is getting colder, and people are pulling out their space heaters. We just wanted to remind you that you should NEVER plug a heater into a power strip. “These units are not designed to handle the high current flow needed for a space heater and can overheat or even catch fire due to the added energy flow. Please share and stay safe this Winter season.”
The US Goverment Consumer Product Safety Commission states: Small space heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the U.S. with more than 65,000 fires being attributed to them each year. The ESFI reports the fire result in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage.