Check before use
Make sure that the extension cord is intact and free from damage before using it. Brittle and discolored extension cords should be discarded. Avoid pulling extension cords from room to room, or from the house to the garden. Then the cord can easily get pinched and be damaged.
Provide child-resistant extension cords
Choose an extension cord with a child lock in rooms where children are present. Sockets with child locks have so-called "shutters", which block/cover the internal live parts, so that neither small fingers nor objects can be inserted into the holes. The covers often have a contrasting colour so that it should be easy to see that they are closed. When a plug is inserted into the socket and both latches are pressed evenly at the same time, the latches are pushed aside so that the plug can be fully inserted.
Use the right length
Use an extension cord that is the right length for the purpose. Avoid connecting multiple extension cords one after the other. If you're using an extension cord reel, be sure to unplug the entire cord, even if you only need a small portion of it. Wires that are coiled in many "rounds" can make the cord hot and increase the risk of fire. Also avoid dust-collecting wire clusters behind sofas and other furniture. Layers of dust increase the temperature in the cord and in the socket.
Avoid overload
Appliances that use a lot of electricity require wires that are adapted to the "amount" of electricity to pass. If you use an extension cord here, you risk that the dimensions are not strong enough. Then the extension cord may become too hot and start to burn. A rule of thumb is that appliances that use more than 1000 watts should not be connected with an extension cord for a long time. Panel heaters, portable oil heaters, dryers and washing machines are examples of such appliances. The more power an appliance uses, the less time it should be connected with an extension cable.
Expand your facility
If you constantly have to retrieve extension cords or they are left permanently connected, it indicates that your system does not meet your needs. Contact an electrician so that you can install the sockets you need.