Outdoor Extension Cords

• Cords are manufactured with a variety of insulation types. Indoor cords are relatively thinner and have less abrasion-resistant covering than outdoor cords. It is safe to use outdoor, and only outdoor, cords in the yard because they are specifically designed to resist crushing, UV light, rubbing and exposure to moisture.
  
  

Cord Gauge

• The thickness, or gauge, of the wires within the cord determines the maximum current the cord can safely carry. A cord used to charge a lawnmower battery must be capable of carrying at least the maximum current required by the battery charger. Use a cord of the same gauge as, or thicker than, the cord attached to the battery charger.
  
  

Cord Condition

• Use a cord that is in good condition. Frayed, cracked, cut and perished cords may expose the inner wires to moisture. You may come into direct contact with electricity when using a damaged cord, or a cord with cracked and broken plugs.