Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

Under what condition can extension cords be used in wet areas?

1. Only if rated for wet areas

2. When using longer lengths

3. Only if secured to the wall

4. Any situation with supervision

The correct answer is: Only if rated for wet areas

Extension cords can be used in wet areas only when they are specifically rated for such conditions. This means that the extension cords are designed and manufactured to withstand exposure to moisture, preventing the risk of electrical shock or short circuits. These cords typically have insulation and materials that can reliably function in wet environments, ensuring safety and compliance with electrical codes. The other conditions mentioned in the options, such as using longer lengths, securing to the wall, or supervision, do not address the inherent requirement for the cord itself to be rated for wet locations. Lengthening the cord can add to voltage drop issues, while securing it may be good practice for safety but does not mitigate the risks associated with moisture. Similarly, supervision alone is not a substitute for using appropriately rated equipment, as it does not prevent potential hazards from occurring. Thus, the safest and most compliant approach in wet areas is to use extension cords that are explicitly rated for those conditions.