Each year in the United States, there are approximately 32,000 home fires associated with electrical-distribution equipment (wiring, switches, etc.), according to the National Fire Protection Association. Things to keep in mind:

Replace cords when they become worn or frayed. New ones will work more efficiently and keep you safe.

Never run a cord under a rug or a carpet. The friction from foot traffic can cause a heat buildup or frayed wires. Instead, run the cord along the bare floor close to a wall or across the top of the rug. To keep the cord from fraying and you from tripping, protect it with a plastic cord cover, such as Wiremold Corduct ($11 for five feet, $26 for 15 feet: www.homedepot.com for locations).

Don’t bundle wires that have electrical current constantly running through them, such as a phone cord. Doing so can trap heat and cause a buildup.