Recent Fire Damage Posts

Fire Damage can last longer than you might Think!

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

A woman cringes after smelling something bad That's the face of someone who can still smell smoke in her internal cooling and heating system. Don't be this person.

When your home or business is affected by a fire, there is more damage than you might think. Of course, the walls and floors and ceilings can be burned or singed, and the smoke can stain them also, but more so than the visual damage, there’s an olfactory component as well. Smoke can stink up any room it touches, and if it makes it into your internal heating and cooling system, it can spread throughout the house. Even if the fire is defeated by those gentlemen from the calendars before it has a chance to do any real lasting damage, the smoke odor can cling to your curtains, carpets, and couches, as well as coating the inside of your air ducts with soot.

Hope is not lost, however, friend, for SERVPRO of North Cabarrus is IICRC-certified to handle fire and smoke cleanup and restoration, and we can get you back to as close to preloss conditions as possible! Give us a call and your Friendly Neighborhood Cleaning and Restoration Company will be there in a jiffy to get to work making it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire may be Hot, but SERVPRO Keeps things Cool

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

A large house fire in front of a silhouetted man. Don't worry. I have a bottle of water and a garden hose.

If your home or business has been affected by fire damage, you know intimately the stress it can cause. You’re wondering how to pick up the pieces, clean up the mess, and restore and reconstruct the damage, all while reliving the event and asking the what-ifs.

All these questions and anxieties can weigh down on your soul; the good news is that after calling (704) 939-1944 (SERVPRO of North Cabarrus!), you can rest easy and stop worrying about the process--we’ve got it from here! Our franchise professionals have been trained and IICRC-certified to use industrial cleanup and restoration equipment to get your home or business back to as close to preloss conditions as possible, and make it “Like it never even happened,” and we can get to work in mere hours!

Fire Restoration Services in Kannapolis?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire-damaged keepsakes and belongings in Cabarrus County.

Contents Restoration Services for Kannapolis Residents.

SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Kannapolis. Even areas of the home or structure that were not directly impacted by the fire will experience smoke and soot exposure and damage. Our fire restoration technicians pretest your belongings to determine what items are salvageable and determine the best cleaning method for restoring each item. We use several different methods to clean and restore your belongings, including:

  • Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
  • Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
  • Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
  • Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
  • Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product
  • Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning

Call Us Today!

When you experience fire damage in your home or commercial business in Kannapolis, SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 704-939-1944. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Propane Grilling Fire in China Grove?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Rowan County.

Propane Grill Safety

It’s getting warmer outside and that means grilling season is upon us. SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in China Grove, and offer these tips on how to tell if you have a gas tank hose leak from the NFPA:

  • Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year
    • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose
    • A propane leak will release bubbles
    • If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill
    • If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again
    • If the leak does not stop, call the fire department
    • If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department
    • Do not move the grill
    • If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it

Call Us Today!

When you require fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day in China Grove. Call us today at 704-939-1944. 

SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety in Gold Hill?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate fire damage 24-hours a day in Gold Hill.

Situational Awareness in Salisbury

While attending a company picnic at a large park, I heard a faraway “sparking sound,” and now and then would get a whiff of something burning. I followed my ears and nose and discovered a transformer on a large utility pole was throwing sparks and burning leaves on a tree next to the transformer. I called the fire department and the power company and made a report. Evidently, some new transformers were faulty and had to be replaced. Who knows how many fires could have broken out if the damaged transformers were not replaced?  

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove has been helping Salisbury residents mitigate fire damage for years. In many cases, situational awareness and quick action can save lives and prevent fire damage. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help you stay safe during an emergency in a public building:

  • React immediately. If an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or some other unusual disturbance, immediately exit the building in an orderly fashion.
  • Get out, stay out! Once you have escaped, stay out. Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. Let trained firefighters conduct rescue operations.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove has a team of highly trained fire restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day in Salisbury. 

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is Independently Owned and Operated.

Space Heater Comfort in Mount Pleasant, NC

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Warmth of a Space Heater!

Space Heater Safety Facts and Tips

During the winter months in Mount Pleasant, it’s nice to have a space heater to take the chill off of a cold room, but did you know that space heaters are responsible for 43 percent of home heating fires in the United States? According to a report published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters were also responsible for 85 percent of associated deaths. SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove wants everyone to be safe this winter and we offer some space heater safety tips from the NFPA to prevent winter fires from starting in your home:

  • Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
  • Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
  • Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Turn off the space heater when you leave the room or go to bed.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO® of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is on call 24 hours a day to help you. Call us at 704-939-1944. We’ll restore your fire damage in Mount Pleasant, “Like it never even happened.”

Safety before the Feast

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Top causes of Thanksgiving Day Fires

Although this year's Thanksgiving may be scaled down from previous years, we all need to stay vigilant when it comes to cooking this year's feast.  According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries with Thanksgiving being the peak day.  Here are some safety tips to ensure that you have a safe day:

  • Never leave food cooking unattended
  • Use a timer and check food regularly while cooking
  • Keep small children at least 3 feet away from the stove and oven
  • Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves that could catch on fire
  • Keep flammable items away from appliances in the kitchen that generate heat
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen year round
  • Make sure all kitchen appliances are turned off before going to bed
  • Check your smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly

Wishing you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

If you do experience a fire or smoke damage during the holidays, or any time of year, SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is Here to Help!

Every Second Counts

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Every second counts during a fire.  In a matter of moments, a small flame can become a major fire. Fire experts agree that once an alarm goes off, you only have one to two minutes to escape safely. It is critical to have an escape plan in place and practice it at least twice a year to increase your chances of survival.  Make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home as well.  Here are some suggestions to help you develop your emergency escape plan:

  • Draw a map of each level of your home showing 2 ways out of each room.
  • Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home.
  • Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on second floors
  • Teach children how to escape on their own.
  • Practice your fire escape plan

When it comes to fire safety, advance planning is a priority. 

If you do experience a fire damage, SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove is available 24/7 to help you navigate through the crisis.

Kitchen Fires

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

In general, Kitchen fires are the number one cause of home fires and injuries in the United States with unattended cooking as the leading cause.  Always keep a lid nearby when cooking if you need to smother a small grease fire, but If you have a cooking fire, it's best to get out and call 9-1-1

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, floors and contents will often need a thorough cleaning. The team at SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove can help you determine the extent of damage, unsalvageable items and then use specific cleaning products to clean your restorable smoke damaged home and contents to preloss condition. 

Call 704-939-1944 for help in restoring your home or place of business in the event of a fire.  We are Here to Help!

Home Cooking Fire Safety

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let your cooking get out of control

Cooking at home more frequently lately?

With the turn of events in the world and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are being asked to abide by the stay at home orders. That means the majority of us are now cooking from home. And that maybe something we are not used to doing.  Cooking fires can easily start and quickly get out of control. Please read these valuable cooking safety tips and statistics provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). www.nfpa.org

What you should know about home cooking safety?

  • Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stove-top.
  • Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
  • If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
  • Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stove-top.
  • If you have a cooking fire, Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
  • Be sure to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
  • If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
  • Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove-top. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
  • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Frying foods on the stove-top tends to be dangerous and have additional safety precautions to consider.

  • Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stove-top.
  • Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.
  • Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sauteing.
  • Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.
  • Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again. Let the pan cool for a long time. Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.

If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. And be sure to call the fire department from outside. When the fire is out and your family is safe, then it’s time for cleanup to begin. That is when SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County and China Grove can help. Please contact our office and we will assist you in taking the right steps to restoring your property and belongings. 704-939-1944.

Don’t be taken aback By a Puff-Back 

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Puff backs: Who do you call when your furnace attacks?

It’s that time of year again, folks. It’s the time when the searing hot summer sun still blazes by day and the bone-chilling Fall temperatures creep up at night.  

It’s also the time when the toughest of the tough like to play a game called “How long can I last before I turn on the heat”. It’s a lot of fun provided that everyone in the house wants to play; and as the battle rages on, one by one frozen little soldiers raise their white flags and turn the heat on. 

Most of the time this is a pleasant moment when the comforting warmth blows from every vent thawing chilled toes and ruby red noses; but once in a while this blessed occasion is tainted by a most dreaded phenomenon known as a puff-back. A puff-back occurs when an oil furnace does not immediately ignite as it should. This causes a vapor build up that will create a sort-of explosion when the furnace finally does ignite. This explosion then causes soot to be blown throughout your home. In other words, your house in now warm...but very dirty. 

Soot, because of its fine nature, can literally spread everywhere, making the task of cleaning it by yourself nearly impossible. SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County and China Grove stands ready with both the crew and the equipment to handle this often-overwhelming situation so that you don’t have to be taken aback by a puff-back. 

Recent Residential Kitchen Fire

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Stove top fires are very common in most homes. They can start out small, but can quickly get out of control. It can start off by a small distraction while you are preparing dinner. You have something on the stove; you defer your attention to something else and possibly leave the room for a second only to walk back to a stovetop fire. Our customer experienced just that while making dinner one night. Fortunately, the homeowners were properly prepared with a fire extinguisher in their kitchen and were able to get this kitchen fire under control quickly. But immediately after, they were left with a terrible mess. That’s when SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove was called in to assist with the cleanup. Although not much structural damage occurred, there was significant smoke damage throughout the home.
Our technicians worked with the homeowner and their family to ensure that all rooms were cleaned to SERVPRO and industry standards. All of the contents within each of these rooms were individually, hand cleaned by our amazing crew. The homeowners were so pleased when we were able to clean some of their more sentimental items.
When you have fire or smoke damage in your home or office, be sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove at (704) 939-1944.

Summer Grilling Safety Tips

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

It is that time of year when the seasons are changing, the weather is getting warmer and summer break is upon us. As the weather gets warmer, more and more people use outdoor grills to prepare their meals. And the incidents of grill-caused fires go up. According to the National Fire Protection Association, outdoor grilling causes an average of 8,900 home fires each year. The team at SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove want you and your family to be safe and avoid any fire damage to you home or property. Before you decide to host your first cook-out,  be sure to read over these helpful grilling safety tips before you throw your steaks on the grill.

Always use your grill outside and away from any structures or obstructions. This includes any low hanging tree branches as well. Be sure to always keep your grill clean.  Grease and fat can build up on the grilling racks as well as the tray below the grill. Before this season’s first barbecue, check for propane leaks on your gas grill. Check the gas hose for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution to the hose and then turning on the gas. If there is a propane leak, the solution will bubble. And be sure to check for leaks before every use. Always wait to re-light if the flame is to go out. A good rule of thumb is waiting 5 minutes. Most importantly, be aware and take care around the grill; Never leave the grill unattended, never wear lose clothing, do not let kids or pets play near the grill, and never move the grill while it is in use or at least an hour after use while it is still hot.

Grilling season is all about fun times. Be sure to be safe during your next cook-out.

I'll Huff and I'll Puff ...

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Puff Back

A puff back occurs when an oil furnace malfunctions forcing large quantities of soot throughout your home. Forced air systems can send this oily soot hurling through the vents causing smoke damage in every single room.

Because this occurrence is generally caused by varying types of oil leaks in your furnace, the soot can be very greasy and almost impossible for you as the homeowner to clean by yourself. This soot can affect almost everything in your home including the walls, ceilings, furniture, artwork, clothing, and other important valuables. Often times a puff back requires a professional restoration or cleaning service to address the issue.

The good news is that puff backs can be avoided. Regular maintenance coupled with heightened awareness are the tools necessary to help prevent this situation from happening in your home. Some of the signs that your oil furnace may need attention include:

  • Black soot on the furnace
  • Smoke on walls or ceilings
  • Banging sounds
  • Odd smells near the furnace

Being proactive and knowing what signs to look for can help you to avoid a puff back situation in your home.  It can also help to keep your furnace running safely and smoothly all winter long.

But if you do need cleanup, Call SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove to help! 

How to Get Rid of Smoke Damage and Smell

6/15/2018 (Permalink)

After a minor fire, often the worst damage is not done by the fire itself but by the smoke and soot

Smoke damage can wreak havoc in your home. Kitchen flare-ups, closed fireplace flues, and electrical fires can send smoke throughout your house, charring walls, covering everything, and stinking up the place. The longer you let smoke and odors linger, the more they soak into walls, carpets, and furniture.  Smoke damage becomes harder to repair over time. Get rid of odors quickly to avoid a persistent problem.  

Call the professionals let us begin!!!!!

If you’ve had extensive smoke damage, professionals can help you clean up and get rid of smoke odor. 

Once the fire’s out or the flue is open, ventilate the house as quickly as possible to mitigate smoke damage.

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County and China Grove the Smoke or fire remediation company: Certified in inspection, Cleaning and Restoration, WE use ozone treatments or thermal fogging to eliminate smells in hard-to-reach areas. Ozone treatments use an ozone generator to send an electrical current through the oxygen, which attacks the smoky odor. Thermal fogging works at the molecular level and generates fine particles to infiltrate the pores of affected materials.

SERVPRO DOES a Professional duct cleaning: Vacuum-scrubs ducts to clear soot and smoke residue


SERVPRO Carpet cleaning: Steam cleans your carpets.

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County and China grove will perform a Deep clean

Throw away heavily damaged or heavily smoked items, and will start cleaning the house top to bottom.  WE WILL:

  • Wipe down all hard surfaces counter-tops, appliances, and furniture—with a cleaning cloth.
  • Wash walls and ceilings. Wipe soot away with a dry sponge. Rub away stubborn stains with a spray. 
  • even light bulbs. Remove bulbs to wash and dry thoroughly, then reinstall.
  • Wash or dry-clean all clothing and drapes.
  • Deodorize carpets and window coverings with odor counteract-ants.
  • Throw away all food that was not sealed in airtight containers.
  • Replace all HVAC filters.

Fire Fighters are Heroes

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove would like to say THANK YOU to our Firefighters.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Run Towards the Danger

When there are fires and explosions, most people flee and run in the opposite direction. Firefighters, however, run towards them. When disaster strikes, firefighters are one of the first officials to reach the scene. Even in medical emergencies, firefighters are responding to the call.

Firefighters are courageous. They know that there’s a chance that things might not go their way. Yet, they push through and do it anyway. General Norman Schwarzkopf once said, “True courage is being afraid, and going ahead and doing your job anyhow, that’s what courage is.”

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Never Give Up

On average, firefighters will work 10, 24-hour shifts per month.

Firefighters also don’t get holidays off. When you’re curled up around the tree waiting for Santa, servicemen and women are out there keeping you safe. While your family is enjoying the fireworks this week, firefighters are on patrol. Besides running the shows, firefighters ensure that all safety regulations are in check to ensure that no one gets hurt.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They’re Also Scientists

Not every fire starts with a match. In some cases, fires start when certain chemicals collide or when an electrical wire gets too hot. There a six known classes of fires. Some include gases, liquids, metals, and oils. Each one requires a different approach and it’s up to the firefighters to decipher which type of fire they’re dealing with.

After subduing the flames, firefighters are tasked with finding the cause. They discover the starting point of a fire by using their knowledge of fire and deductive skills. They use their scientific knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering to deduct where and when a fire started. Besides pinpointing the origin, firefighters can also determine if a fire was accident or arson.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Inspire Others

Think about all the little boys and girls on Halloween strutting around town in plastic red firefighter hats. Even when you were young, there was always one classmate or friend who wanted to be a firefighter when they grew up. Firefighters are inspirational. Every day they face new dangers and every day they find ways to fix them.

It takes a special kind of person to become a firefighter. They throw themselves out of windows, run through burning buildings and cut people out of cars. Firefighters see and experience things that affect them both mentally and physically. Despite this, they continue to do what they do.

Firefighters Are Heroes Because They Do More than Fight Fires

Being a firefighters means more than just battling blazes. Firefighters save people. Whether you’re hurt, stuck in a car, or stuck in a building, firefighters are there to help. They answer in catastrophes and car accidents. They even act as emergency medical technicians in some situations. Firefighters care for the sick and injured. They rescue pets, pull animals out of trees.

Firefighters also work to prevent future fires from happening. They install fire alarms, create fire regulations, and teach children fire safety. Firefighters work tirelessly to ensure that their community is taken care of. Because being a firefighter isn’t about the glory or the money, it’s about how many lives you can change.

We are so grateful for our firefighter partners who work tirelessly to make a difference in their communities.

SUMMER SAFETY TIPS

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is here

The summer season is a time to make memories and enjoy the great outdoors.  Below you will find tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association.

  • When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for grills; do not add fluid after coals have been lit.
  • When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight; check hoses for leaks.  Apply soapy water to the hoses to easily identify possible leaks.
  • When camping, always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp away from the campfire.  Use flashlights or battery- powered lanterns inside the tent, NOT liquid- filled heaters or lanterns.
  • Always build a campfire down wind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building a fire.  Always extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.  To extinguish a campfire, cove with dirt or pour water over the fire.
  • Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire and only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.

SERVPRO wishes you a happy and safe summer.

National Electrical Safety Month

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 47,700 home fires in the U.S. are caused by electrical failures or malfunctions each year. These fires can be prevented by following essential home electrical safety tips.

Extension cord safety

  • Don't use extension cords as a substitute for repairing building wiring.
  • Inspect extension cords for broken connectors, damaged insulation and missing hardware before each use.
  • Do not run extension cords through walls, over beams, around corners or through doorways.
  • Only use extension cords approved for the environment and loads expected.
  • Use only surge protected power strips. Inspect the power strips regularly for damage or signs of overloading
  • Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords.
  • Don’t run extension cords under rugs or carpets or in high traffic areas.
  • Keep extension cords away from children and animals.

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Home.

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Restaurant Fire

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

  • Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
  • Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
  • The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of North Cabarrus County & China Grove will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

  • Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

  • Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

  • Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today
– 704-939-1944

National Electrical Safety Month

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 47,700 home fires in the U.S. are caused by electrical failures or malfunctions each year. These fires can be prevented by following essential home electrical safety tips.

Extension cord safety

  • Don't use extension cords as a substitute for repairing building wiring.
  • Inspect extension cords for broken connectors, damaged insulation and missing hardware before each use.
  • Do not run extension cords through walls, over beams, around corners or through doorways.
  • Only use extension cords approved for the environment and loads expected.
  • Use only surge protected power strips. Inspect the power strips regularly for damage or signs of overloading
  • Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords.
  • Don’t run extension cords under rugs or carpets or in high traffic areas.
  • Keep extension cords away from children and animals.