Extension cords belong inside during winter.

Inside your house, not the garage. Freezing temps turn plastic insulation brittle, and even a gentle kink can crack it. Once cracked, you get exposed wires, sparks, and a bad day.

Most outdoor extension cords are not rated for sustained sub-freezing storage. The cold makes the jacket stiff and less flexible. If you must keep one outside, coil it loosely and keep it off the frozen ground — but really, just bring it in.

One season of leaving a cord outside in the cold is usually fine. Two or three winters and it’s a hazard you won’t spot until you grab it and hear that crunch.

Spend the thirty seconds to put it away. Your winter self will thank you.