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Welcome back to our new Fire Starter Series here at Bill’s Quality Electric, LLC! The purpose of this new series is to clue you in on different scenarios that could potentially start a fire, so you can reduce or eliminate the possibility of fire in your home or business. In our first Fire Starter post, our topic was on Room Air Conditioners which you can access here. For today’s post, we will chat about one of my favorite topics when it comes to electrical hazards: The Extension Cord. Yes. Now, there is a place for them when used properly and temporarily. Such as buying the right type for the purpose, whether indoors or outdoors. You definitely don’t want to use an indoor extension cord outdoors. That’s a shock hazard waiting to happen, but today, we’re focused on fires. One big issue with extension cords being a fire starter is when More Than One Is Used. You know, when they are piggy backed. NEVER a good idea. It’s always best to buy the length of extension you need with just one, rather than putting two together. If you extend the extension cord by having more than one, there is risk of fire two ways. 1. If they come apart and you are unaware, the heat from the unsecured plug could spark a fire. 2. Using more than one can cause overheating. So, best practice? Only use an extension cord when absolutely necessary. (You’re better off adding a plug, whether indoors or outdoors where you need it.) And when you use one, make sure it’s the right kind and only use ONE for the job. And always follow manufacturer’s instructions before each usage. So, always think twice before using an extension cord and when you do use one, do it safely! Keep our fire starters series coming to your social media feed by following us on Twitter and liking us on Facebook. You’re also welcome to subscribe to our YouTube Channel, which is your Electrical Safety Resource! And do share this information with a friend, so you can all Stay Electrically Safe and Smart! If you own a business or home in Collin County area of North Texas and are in need of electrical service, repair or installation, give us a call at 214.697.3134 to schedule an appointment with Bill’s Quality Electric, LLC. We look forward to doing business with you! 