Power strips are just extension cords with multiple receptacles. So when you use them to plug in office equipment, remember that safety precautions for extension cords also apply for power strips. Additional precautions for power strips include:

• Only use power strips that have a built-in circuit breaker that will trip if overloaded or shorted.
• Plug appliances such as refrigerators, microwave ovens or wall air conditioning units into an electrical outlet — not a power strip
• If a power strip feels hot, throw it away and replace it.
• Don’t cover a power strip with a rug, furniture or any other item that blocks air circulation.
• Don’t daisy chain — plug one power strip into another power strip.

When you use power strips correctly, you’ll get the extra outlets you need and prevent fires caused by overloaded circuits.

And that’s smart safety!

For additional information or guidance, contact your safety office.