KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the festive season approaches and households lean more heavily on electrical appliances, the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) has issued a renewed call for vigilance around home electrical safety—particularly concerning the use of extension cords and power accessories.
Superintendent Emeleo Ebanks, Public Education Officer at the JFB, is urging Jamaicans to reconsider how they use everyday electrical tools that, when misused, have the potential to ignite devastating house fires.
Not All Cords Are Created Equal
According to Superintendent Ebanks, many residents unknowingly put themselves at risk by using lightweight extension cords for heavy-duty appliances. “A two-prong cord should raise immediate red flags. If your device doesn’t offer grounding, it doesn’t belong in your kitchen or anywhere high-powered,” he cautioned.
He explained that popular white or brown household cords typically lack the infrastructure to support modern kitchen devices, which draw more energy than ever before.
Tampering with Plugs? Dangerous Territory
The brigade also flagged a common yet dangerous practice: forcibly altering three-prong plugs to fit older outlets. “That third prong is there for a reason. Breaking it off isn’t just risky—it’s reckless. You’re removing the very safety mechanism meant to protect you,” Superintendent Ebanks warned.
This kind of modification effectively bypasses grounding, a critical component in preventing electrical shock and short circuits.
Short Cords, Long Lifespan
A surprising point was raised about the deliberate design of kitchen appliances. Many consumers question the short lengths of power cords on toasters, blenders, and coffee machines—but there’s logic behind it.
“Manufacturers don’t want you stretching these devices across counters with questionable cords. They’re built to plug directly into the wall,” he explained. “The cord is short on purpose—to keep you safe.”
Heat Builds, Fires Begin
One of the most understated hazards in the home is overheating. When extension cords aren’t built to carry the electrical load of certain appliances, the result is more than just a warm cord—it’s a fire hazard waiting to ignite.
“Blenders, microwaves, and electric kettles all consume significant power. Using them with the wrong cord doesn’t just trip your breaker—it can start a fire,” he added.
What You Should Use Instead
Householders were encouraged to invest in certified surge protectors—not to be confused with cheap power strips. “If you’re using sensitive or high-powered equipment, don’t cut corners. A proper surge protector can save your devices—and your life,” said Ebanks.
He also stressed the importance of checking labels and ensuring that any surge protection equipment carries authentic safety certifications.
In a landscape where convenience often overshadows caution, the JFB’s message is clear: treat electricity with respect, or risk learning the hard way.
