Regular two-pronged extension cords should be used only with light-duty appliances. A durable three-pronged extension cord is needed when working with power tools.

GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) extension cords protect plugs from water. The circuits automatically cut off when moisture is in the air. A GFCI box can be purchased separately as an accessory to an extension cord.

The all-in-one circuit breaker has four outlets and a retractable cord measuring anywhere from 20 feet to 40 feet.

To prevent power-tool cords from pulling away from extension cords, tie the connected ends of the two cords in a square knot. Place an extension connector box around the connected ends of the cords to secure them. Or use rope or garbage-bag ties to hold the two cords together.

Store extension cords properly to prevent them from becoming a tangled mess. Just wrap the cord around a paper-towel core, or use a special wheel designed for use with extension cords.