Use of thin, light duty extension cords can increase the risk of fire and shock. Make sure extension cords have adequate current capacity for the equipment being used. Do not pull an electrical cord out of a socket by the cord. This breaks interior wires and can cause a short and, possibly, a fire. Inspect for frayed or split cords or plugs before use.
Electrical cords can also be a tripping hazard.
It is a good practice to route cords away from traffic areas to prevent trips and falls. Avoid stretching or pinching cords between objects. This can break interior wires, causing overheating which can result in a fire. A ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, should be used in high risk areas such as wet locations or outdoor sites. Portable GFCIs are available from any hardware store or safety supply catalog.