What is the primary risk associated with using extension cords improperly?

The primary risk associated with using extension cords improperly is overheating and potential fire hazards. When extension cords are used incorrectly, such as being overloaded with devices that draw more electricity than the cord is rated for, they can heat up significantly. This excessive heat can damage the insulation of the cord, exposing wires and creating a risk of electrical short circuits. In extreme cases, overheating can ignite surrounding materials, leading to electrical fires.

Using extension cords without considering their ampacity can increase the chances of overheating, especially if the cord is too thin for the electrical load it carries. Furthermore, placing extension cords in areas where they are subject to physical damage or placing them under rugs can inhibit their ability to dissipate heat, compounding the fire risk.

Understanding these dangers helps emphasize the importance of using extension cords safely and in accordance with their rated specifications, which includes not exceeding their load capacity and avoiding daisy-chaining multiple cords together.