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Fires can quickly start if your extension or block heater cords are broken or cracked.

Manitoba Public Insurance warns cords that are cracked or have exposed wires should be replaced.

The reminder comes after several vehicle fires have recently been linked to electrical arcing.

To avoid damage, one tip MPI gives is to not drive over your cord. This can cause cracking or breaking during bitterly cold weather.

Manitoba Public Insurance encourages people to unplug their block heater by using the hard, rubber end.

By pulling on the cord, it can cause breakage and potential electrical issues.

They also recommend covering your block heater plug-in with its protective cover.