Electrical Safety for the Holidays
3,300 residential fires are caused by faulty extension cords each year,
resulting in 50 deaths and 270 injuries. While extension cord safety is
a year round concern, use of these devices is more prominent during the
holidays! Fire caused by faulty plug receptacles, wrong extension cord
use are only a few concerns:
- Purchase extension cords from a reputable retailer. Never use an extension
cord that does not carry the UL, ETL or CSA standards from the laboratory. - Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use (either
indoor or outdoor) and that they meet or exceed the power needs of the
device being used. - Do not overload extension cords! All extension cords should be routed through
a GFCI receptacle. - Extension cords are meant to provide a temporary solution and should not
be used as a long-term or permanent circuit. - Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of snow and standing water and well
protected from the elements. - Examine cords before each use. Cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged cords
should be replaced immediately. - Multiple plugged directly into mounted electrical receptacles; they cannot
be chained together. - Do not run cords through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors.
Calling American Mechanical for a
FREE ELECTRICAL PANEL INSPECTION during the holidays! It is the wisest decision you can make before plugging
in the lights!
