January 21, 2026 – A safety incident involving a Maximm 360-3101-W extension cord has been reported, detailing the male end of the cord burning and its internal components melting. The incident highlights a potential safety risk associated with the product’s unique 360-degree rotating plug feature.
Product Details
Incident Overview
On January 1, 2026, an incident was reported concerning a Maximm 360-3101-W extension cord. According to the report, the male plug end of the extension cord experienced severe overheating, leading to burning and the melting of its internal components. The product is designed with a male end that rotates 360 degrees, a feature which, following the incident, no longer functions due to the damage sustained from the burning. The specific circumstances leading to the overheating and burning were not detailed in the report, but the damage rendered the rotating feature inoperable and the product unsafe.
Safety Concerns
This incident presents significant safety concerns, primarily revolving around the risk of fire and electrical hazards.
- Immediate Dangers: The burning and melting of an extension cord’s plug components indicate a serious risk of electrical fire. Such an event can quickly ignite nearby flammable materials, leading to extensive property damage or, more critically, personal injury, burns, smoke inhalation, or even fatalities.
- Long-Term Risks: Even if an initial fire does not occur, compromised electrical components can lead to intermittent power issues, arcing, or continued overheating, posing a hidden fire risk over time. The rotating feature, if it was a point of failure, could indicate a design or manufacturing flaw that compromises the electrical integrity of the plug.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using this specific model of extension cord, particularly if it’s plugged into an outlet near curtains, furniture, or other combustible materials, is at risk. Occupants of homes or workplaces where these cords are used could be exposed to fire or electrical shock hazards.
- Property Damage Potential: Electrical fires originating from faulty extension cords can cause substantial damage to electrical outlets, appliances, and the surrounding property. The cost of repairs and replacement can be significant, not to mention the sentimental loss of personal belongings.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who own a Maximm 360-3101-W extension cord should take immediate action to ensure their safety.
- Immediate Steps to Take: If you own this model, immediately and safely unplug the extension cord from the wall outlet. Do not attempt to use it further, especially if you observe any signs of damage, discoloration, melting, or burning.
- How to Check If They Own the Affected Product: Verify the model number, “360-3101-W,” which is typically printed on the cord itself or on the packaging. The brand “Maximm” should also be visible.
- Prevention Measures: Always ensure extension cords are used appropriately for their intended load and are not daisy-chained or overloaded. Regularly inspect all extension cords for signs of wear, fraying, discoloration, or heat damage. Never run extension cords under rugs or through doorways where they can be damaged.
- Reporting Procedures: If you have experienced a similar incident or have concerns about this product, it is crucial to report it to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at www.cpsc.gov. This helps authorities track incidents and take appropriate action.
Manufacturer’s Response
Maximm Cable provided a response on January 29, 2026, stating: “Maximm Cable has reviewed the referenced consumer report. Based on the information available to us at this time, we are not aware of any injuries associated with this report or of any similar incidents involving this product. The product identified in the report is a UL-certified extension cord designed and manufactured to comply with applicable safety standards when used as intended. Maximm Cable takes product safety seriously and routinely monitors consumer feedback and reports in the ordinary course of business.”
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.