A black power strip sitting on top of a table

In our tech-driven world, nearly every room in the house relies on electricity. But when an outlet is too far away, many people turn to extension cords as a quick fix. While convenient, extension cords are not a one-size-fits-all solution—and misusing them can put your home and safety at serious risk.

To help you avoid common hazards, we spoke with professional electricians who shared 13 situations where using an extension cord could be dangerous—or even life-threatening.

1. Never Use Extension Cords as a Permanent Fix

Extension cords aren’t designed to be long-term wiring. Over time, they wear out and may overheat, creating a fire hazard. If you're using one frequently in the same spot, it's time to install a proper outlet.

** If you absolutely must use one for a while, replace it regularly to avoid wear and tear.

2. Don’t Hide Extension Cords Behind Walls

It might be tempting to hide unsightly cords behind walls or drywall, but it’s a major fire risk. Screws and nails can puncture the cord, creating electrical sparks.

Expert Insight: Extension cords are not built to be hidden behind solid surfaces. Leave them exposed or find an alternative.

3. Avoid Them in the Kitchen

Appliances like toasters and slow cookers draw more power than you might think. Using an extension cord here could cause the cord to overheat.

Better Choice: Plug kitchen appliances directly into wall outlets for safety and consistent power.

4. Keep Them Away from Wet or Damp Areas

Water and electricity don’t mix. Bathrooms, basements, and outdoor areas with moisture are no place for standard extension cords.

Safety First: Only use extension cords marked as safe for outdoor or damp environments.

5. Don’t Plug in Too Many Devices

One extension cord shouldn't power everything. Overloading it with multiple high-powered gadgets like TVs, printers, and computers can lead to overheating.

What Could Go Wrong? A circuit overload can spark fires or damage your electronics.

6. Don’t Use with Hair Styling Tools

Hair dryers and curling irons require a lot of power quickly. Extension cords might not handle this load properly.

Bonus Risk: Bathrooms, where these tools are often used, also add the danger of water exposure.

7. Never Run Cords Under Rugs or Furniture

Hiding cords under rugs may keep things tidy, but it also traps heat and damages the insulation. Walking on or pressing furniture onto cords increases the risk of cracks, frays, and sparks.

Play It Safe: Keep cords visible and clear of traffic areas.

8. Don’t Use with Large Appliances

Big appliances like refrigerators, space heaters, and microwaves draw too much power for most extension cords to handle safely.

** Always plug these directly into a grounded wall outlet.

9. Avoid Using Damaged or Frayed Cords

If you see any wear, tear, or loose parts on your extension cord, don’t use it. Damaged cords are a fire and shock hazard.

Rule of Thumb: When in doubt, throw it out.

10. Don’t Use with Electric Bikes or Scooters

Charging electric scooters or bikes? Skip the extension cord. These devices often need more power than a cord can safely provide.

Why It Matters: Improper charging setups can lead to overheating or fire.

11. Avoid Indoor Cords for Outdoor Use

Not all extension cords are built to handle the outdoors. Lightweight, indoor-only cords can fail when exposed to weather or rough use.

Check the Label: Outdoor-rated cords usually have a "W" mark. Use these for your yard work or outdoor setups.

12. Don’t Connect Multiple Extension Cords Together

Chaining extension cords to cover long distances, known as "daisy chaining," is a major fire risk. Each added cord increases resistance and heat.

Smarter Alternative: Use a single, longer extension cord that fits the task.

13. Avoid Using Excessively Long Cords

Longer isn’t always better. If the cord is too long for your needs, switch to a shorter one. Coiling a long cord can trap heat and damage the insulation.

Quick Fix: Match the cord length to the job.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe with Smarter Power Choices

Extension cords are handy tools, but they come with limits. Using them the wrong way can lead to fires, injuries, or worse. Follow these expert tips to stay safe, protect your home, and power your devices the right way.

** If you find yourself constantly reaching for an extension cord, consider hiring an electrician to add more outlets where you need them most.