The Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers that “male-to-male” extension cords pose a serious risk of electrocution or fire.
In a press release, the CPSC says it’s “secured the removal” of the cords from major e-commerce platforms, including Walmart, eBay and AliExpress. It advises consumers to stop using these products and dispose of them immediately.
The cords are commonly used to supply power from a generator to a residential electrical system, a practice known as backfeeding. This can result in serious injury or death from an electrocution or fire, the agency warns.
The blue, red or yellow cords, which are manufactured in China, have two male ends with a three-prong black plug.
“Male-to-male extension cords, often referred to as ‘suicide cords,’ pose a serious risk of fire and electrocution and have no legitimate household use,” acting CPSC Chair Peter A. Feldman said in the release.
In addition, the cords’ short length increases the likelihood of generators being used too close to homes or in small spaces, creating a carbon monoxide poisoning risk. When disposing of the cords, consumers are advised to carefully unplug them and avoid contact with exposed prongs.
CPSC adds that online marketplaces have committed to identifying and delisting similar hazardous products.
