Subject: Staten Island Advance placement
From: "Merilee:::Kern Communications" <[email-masked]>
To: <[email-masked]>
Date: Thu, 1 Oct 2009 13:01:48 -0700

http://www.silive.com/homegarden/homeimprovement/index.ssf/2009/09/post_185.html

HOME & GARDEN 
Home Improvement
Extension cord safety advice
By Maura Grunlund 
September 25, 2009, 5:00AM
Courtesy of CableOrganizerExtension cords are a handy way to power appliancesAll extension cords are not created equal and there's a real threat of shock or fire if they're used incorrectly.

While most of us homeowners grab any extension cord that happens to be around the house it's really better to use one intended for a specific purpose, according to CableOrganizer.Com.

Extension cords are classified for either indoor or outdoor use. While it's fine to use an outdoor cord inside don't attempt to use an indoor cord in the yard. Outdoor cords are  specifically made to withstand temperature changes, moisture, sun rays and perhaps even chemicals.

Look for the UL or Underwriters Laboratories seal of approval. 

Check the maximum number of watts that the cord is supposed to carry and don't go beyond that or overheating and a fire may result. If you're plugging multiple appliances into a cord add the watts together to make sure there's no overload.

Don't use cords with any obvious damage such as cuts and for extra safety unplug them when they're not in use.