Follow these tips to enhance the safe use of electrical cords and extension cords:

• Look for a certification mark on all electrical cords such as that of CSA International. This shows that the cord complies with the applicable safety standards.
• Check appliance and extension cords regularly and replace them if they are worn or damaged. In particular, look for worn insulation and splices on the cord, and loose or exposed parts on the plug.
• Use an extension cord only as a temporary connection.
• Make sure the extension cord is heavy enough for the intended load. For any device that draws more than 7 amps, use a heavy-duty cord with No. 16 or No. 14 wire. (To determine how many amps a device will draw, divide the wattage by 120.)
• If a cord or plug becomes hot when it is plugged in, it may be overloaded. Unplug it immediately and replace it with a heavier cord.
• When working with power tools, use a heavy-duty, grounded, three-pronged cord.
• Never connect more than one extension cord together; instead use a single cord that is long enough to reach from the appliance to the outlet without stretching.
• Avoid using a cord that is too long for the job, because a coiled or tangled cord can overheat or become a tripping hazard.
• Never run an electrical cord through a doorway, because if the door closes on the cord the insulation could be damaged. Similarly, never run an electrical cord under a carpet or rug, because when people walk over the rug the resulting weight and friction could damage the cord, increasing the risk of fire or electric shock.
• Always match the wide blade of the plug to the wide slot of the outlet. NEVER force a three-pronged plug into a two-pronged outlet or extension cord.
• Store extension cords only indoors at temperatures above 0°C (32°F). Outdoor conditions can deteriorate extension cords over a period of time.
• When outdoors, use only cords that are clearly marked for outdoor use.
• Use electrical cords only in dry locations.
• Always unplug an extension cord when it is not in use.
• TUG BY THE PLUG: Never unplug an electrical cord by pulling on the cord.