When removing a plug from a wall receptacle, is it safe or unsafe to pull on the cord instead of the plug itself, and why?

• A. It is unsafe only if the plug is connected to a high-voltage appliance.
• B. It is safe because the cord is designed to handle the force of removal.
• C. It is unsafe because pulling on the cord can damage the cord or plug, potentially exposing live wires and increasing the risk of electric shock.
• D. It is safe as long as your hands are dry and you are standing on an insulated surface.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that electrical cords and plugs are designed with safety in mind, but they have limits on how much mechanical stress they can safely endure.
2. Recognize that pulling on the cord instead of the plug can cause internal damage to the wires or connections inside the plug or cord, which may not be immediately visible.
3. Know that damaged cords or plugs can expose live wires, increasing the risk of electric shock or electrical fires.
4. Learn that the safest practice is to always grip and pull the plug itself when unplugging an appliance, rather than pulling on the cord.
5. Remember that safety precautions like dry hands and insulated surfaces reduce shock risk but do not eliminate the danger caused by damaged cords from improper unplugging.