Extension cords are helpful ways to bring power to electrical devices. They become very useful, especially for outdoor use. However, extension cords can quickly overheat and, when handled with less attention to safety measures, can pose extreme fire hazards and threaten personal safety.  

According to an article on Electrical safety, approximately  3,300 home fires originate in extension cords yearly, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. This is a huge number; even if only one person was endangered, that is still too much. Considering these disturbing statistics, efforts to enhance outdoor safety with extension cords are proper and urgently needed.  

While there are permanent solutions to help you sort your outdoor electric power needs, like an electrical panel upgrade, extension cords remain useful and dynamic. You can use them and limits risks by paying attention to a few safety principles.  

Here are five guidelines for using extension cords safely that can be helpful in the outdoors: 

1. Order The Right Extension Cords 

Many extension cords are in the stores, and not all are suited for outdoor use. Employing extension cords indifferently for indoor and outdoor use is a risk.  

Extension cords meant for home use are unsuitable to power external electrical devices. Apart from being designed for indoor use, they do not have the requisite power and electricity flow for such devices to operate safely and effectively. 

You should order a specially designed and versatile outdoor extension cord for safe outdoor power extension needs. Exceptionally designed outdoor extension cords are heavy-duty and safe, especially with devices requiring more wattage. Outdoor extension cords are also made for durability; they can withstand the harsh external environment with varying temperatures and moisture.  

Another consideration while hunting for the right extension cord for outdoor use involves your device. Various electrical appliances require different wattage, and those meant for smaller machines will not be safe for bigger machines.  

2. Remained Informed On The Conditions Of Your Extension Cord 

Like every other piece of equipment we use, extension cords undergo wear and tear. While wear and tear in other equipment only affect their function, your safety is on the line when it involves extension cords. You should always keep tabs on the condition of your outdoor extension cords and watch out for any signs of damage.  

Some common damages that can happen to your extension cord include having a ground portion cut away, damaged or cut cords, and exposed or broken covering.  

When you detect any damage to your extension cord, you should avoid what most people do, to the peril of their own life—using masking tape to cushion the cord. When the cord has gone to the extent that it needs tape to be safely used, it should be avoided. Such a cord is degraded and should be discarded. 

3. Avoid Plugging One Cord Into Another 

Having multiple cords plugged into one another is a common sight in many outdoor electrical-powered appliances. People resort to such options when the distance from the power source and the point of operation is longer than the available extension cords.  

Unfortunately, this is a common breach of outdoor electrical rules and safety concerns. This common practice can be responsible for burns, machinery breakdown, or electric shock.  

So, what is the danger of plugging multiple electrical cords into each other? 

Typically, the length of an extension cord determines its rank. Assuming an instance where two separate cords are plugged into each other, their existing capacity is compromised by up to 50%. This can result in a volt fall and extreme heating.  

An extension cord should not cover more than 100 feet for safe operations. It is hazardous to achieve this threshold through a shortcut—connecting one electrical cord to the other.  A temporary power delivery box is a safe option if outdoor power demands require you to go more than a 100-foot span. 

4. Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)  

You can enhance safety by employing a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet when using extension cords outdoors. GFCI outlets are specific types of outlets that have a safe design that cuts down electricity in unwanted circumstances. Using GFCI outlets can prove useful and readily helpful in preventing electrical surges, fires, and other potential disasters when using the cord outdoors. 

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters can be useful everywhere, even in indoor operations.  However, GFCI outlets should be considered non-negotiable for outdoor electrical appliance use, especially in potential danger zones.  These include situations where water exposure is a possible risk since water and electricity are not bosom buddies.  

5. Don’t Leave The Extension Cord Outdoor 

As strong as outdoor cords can be, you should not leave them outside when not in use. Even rocks only need time and will break away, so should you think of your extension cord. You should be more strict in events of changing weather frequented by varying temperatures and rainfalls.    

The safety concern with avoiding leaving your extension cords outside is to enhance their lifespan and durability. While they are typically able to withstand outdoor perils like the scorching sun, foot traffic, and extreme colds, keeping the outdoor cords in safe spaces when not in use is a safety measure. It will ensure longer service and avoid unforeseen accidents with damaged cords.  

Conclusion 

Extension cords are a helpful quick fix to external electric power-dependent appliances. Using extension cords for outdoor operations requires putting in place some safety measures. These guidelines are useful for your personal safety and for boosting the lifespan of the extension cords to ensure they serve you longer.