Do not resume use until the trouble is fixed. Use extension cords heavy enough to carry required wattage to the devices in use. Use grounded extensions for three-prong equipment. Each circuit must be protected by a fuse or circuit breaker that will blow or break when its safe carrying capacity is surpassed. Any circuit will take a temporary overload, like when a motor starts.
Circuit breakers provide time delay and are the preferred type of protection for general use.
Motor and Power Tool Fire Hazards Motor troubles can trigger a fire. Keep the area around motors and heaters free of flammable or combustible materials. Provide plenty of ventilation for motors, and keep them clean. Internal failures or shorts could cause a motor to burst into flames. Most electrical devices are subject to internal wiring failures, faulty power cords and switches that add to fire risk.