How often do extension cords catch fire?
Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and workplace.
Is it dangerous to leave an extension cord plugged in?
Don’t let your extension cords become potential fire hazards. Extension cords are a common and convenient way to bring power to electrical devices. But used without proper caution, they can become fire hazards and pose risks to your personal safety.
Is it safe to use an extension cord overnight?
Having an extension cord on a bed isn’t a likely hazard if the cord is in good condition and not overloaded. Modern electrical devices, including extension cords, have safety features tested to ensure they are safe for practical uses, even using one on a bed.
How do electrical cords start fires?
Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets (Receptacles) or worn out sockets that are not properly grounded. As outlets and switches get older, the wiring behind them wears as well, and wires are strung about that loosen overtime and could potentially break and cause a fire.
Why does my extension lead get hot?
When one part of an extension cord gets hot, it means that there is a little more resistance at that location. If this is a plug or a socket, then that usually conducts heat to what it is plugged into, so usually they both heat up.
Is it bad if an extension cord gets hot?
Residents should also periodically touch cords. “If the cord gets warm or hot to the touch, you may have the wrong size cord or there may be a problem with the wiring in the cord,” Dodson said. “If the cord should handle the load of the item that is plugged in and it becomes hot, there is a problem.”
Can a plug catch fire?
Always use the plug. Overloading the socket by using several adaptors into the one socket can cause it to overheat and catch fire. You could overheat a socket and start a fire by putting several adaptors into one socket. Always make sure your plugs and adaptors have the right fuse for the appliance you are using.
How long can I run an extension cord?
In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length. However, by plugging one extension cord into another, the maximum cord length can be easily exceeded. If the job requires more than a 100-foot distance, a temporary power distribution box is required.
Should an electrical cord be hot?
This amount of electricity may cause the cord to become warm – this is normal. You should be able to put your hand around the cord and feel that it is warm to the touch, but it should not be too hot to hold. If the cord is excessively hot, there may be a problem with the outlet the heater is connected to.
What are the hazards of extension cords?
Extension Cord Hazards Avoid running extension cords across high traffic areas. Extension cords that are loose or hanging are prone to being tripped over, hooked on and ultimately disconnected. This causes not only a tripping hazard, but the pull can bring down the devices that are connected to the extension cord.
Why are extension cords unsafe?
Why are extension cords a safety hazard? If the extension cord is covered, heat is unable to escape and could result in a fire. Make sure extension cords are visible and if at all possible, not running across highly trafficked areas. They can be a trip hazard for people walking through the area. When an extension cord is used, take extra precautions to prevent electric shock.
Are extension cords safe for permanent use?
Extension cords are built for convenience but also built for temporary use. The problem with extension cords is that they are not listed, labeled, or rated for long-term use. The Uniform Fire Code states that these types of cords are intended for the temporary and immediate use of an appliance and are not to be permanently “installed”.
What is extension cord used for?
An extension cord is a type of electrical wiring used to extend the length of a power cord.