Cord protectors are the only safe way across sidewalks.
Yes, but only with a proper cord protector—don’t just tape it down. Tape wears off, the cord gets pinched, and someone trips anyway. A rubber cable ramp designed for sidewalks holds the cord securely and stays flat.
Make sure you use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cord, too. Indoor cords aren’t built for UV, moisture, or the pressure of people stepping on them. Position the ramp where foot traffic is predictable, and check it every few days for wear.
If the sidewalk gets frequent snow shoveling or lawn mowing, reroute the cord if possible. But for short-term use, a cord cover is honestly fine.
This is not the place to improvise.