Extension Cords and Surge Protectors
What do students across campuses, construction workers and people decorating their homes have in common? In each instance, there are multiple electronic devices being used or needing to be charged. As society advances, the need for electricity increases, and so does the threat of electrical fires. Many electrical fires are caused by extension cords or power strips being used improperly. Look over this list and build new habits. It could save a life someday.
The following are ways to reduce electrical fires and equipment malfunctions:
- Only use power strips and surge protectors that have over-current protection built in.
- Power strips, extension cords, and surge protectors must be plugged directly into the wall.
- There should be no daisy-chains, such as an extension cord plugged into a power strip, or a power strip plugged into a surge protector.
- Never use extension cords or power strips on kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, or any other appliance that draws a large amount of power.
- Never cut off the ground pin to fit a 3-prong cord into a 2-prong plug.
- Extension cords are only for temporary use. Unplug them when they are not in use.
- All electrical items, including extension cords, must be certified by a nationally recognized independent testing laboratory, such as Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Intertek (ETL), or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
- Keep electrical cords and power strips away from areas such as beds, curtains, couches, and other flammable areas.
- Do not cover extension cords, power strips, or surge protectors. Doing so could trap heat and cause a fire.
- Store all cords and power strips in a dry place away from animals.
- Never run an extension cord through a doorway or covered opening. It could be pinched or damaged and cause a fire.
- Regularly inspect all your extension cords before use for damage and replace them when necessary to reduce the risk of fire.
- If an extension cord or power strip is damaged, do not attempt to repair it. Instead find the closest recycling facility that can take the items.
For any questions or concerns in regards to what surge protectors, power strips, or extension cords are allowed in dormitories, please read the Residential Life Handbook or contact their department at (405) 744-5592.