Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology Male-to-Male Extension Cords Recalled Due to Risk of Serious Injury and Death from Electrocution and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Hazards; Sold on Walmart

What was recalled

If you have been relying on portable power sources during recent outages or for various outdoor projects, it is crucial to pause and inspect your extension cords immediately. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a serious recall involving specific male-to-male extension cords manufactured by Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology. These items, which are often colloquially referred to as "pigtail cables," were marketed as heavy-duty solutions for connecting generators to residential electrical systems. While they may look like standard extension cords at first glance, their unique design presents significant dangers that have led to this urgent safety alert.

The specific products affected by this recall are the 125V, 12AWG male-to-male extension cords available in two distinct model numbers: RY-US-06 and RY_US-1.5. These cords come in either blue or yellow insulation, a color scheme often chosen for high-visibility outdoor equipment. Physically, each end of the cord features a three-prong male plug, meaning there are no female outlets on either side to accept a standard appliance plug. The lengths of these recalled cords vary between 23.6 inches and 59 inches, making them short enough to encourage placing a generator in close proximity to a home’s exterior walls or windows—a placement that is inherently risky for other reasons as well.

To determine if you own one of these recalled units, you must look closely at your purchase records, as the model number is typically printed on the product's original purchase order or receipt rather than visibly on the cord itself. These specific cords were sold through Walmart stores and likely via their online platform. The recall was officially announced on April 9, 2026, bringing to light the severe risks associated with these particular items. It is important to note that while the brand name "Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology" identifies the manufacturer, consumers should not rely on a branded label alone; verifying the model numbers RY-US-06 and RY_US-1.5 against your receipts is the most reliable way to confirm if your cord is part of this recall.

The nature of these cords is particularly concerning because they are designed for "backfeeding," a practice where electricity from a generator is pushed into a home's wiring system through an outlet. Unlike proper transfer switches that isolate the home's grid from utility lines, using male-to-male cords to connect a generator directly to a wall outlet creates a direct electrical bridge. This recall highlights that these specific units violate critical safety requirements because their exposed prongs can become energized when plugged into a power source. If you purchased these items to keep your lights on during a storm or to power tools at a job site, they are no longer safe for use and must be addressed immediately.

The hazard, explained

To understand why these male-to-male extension cords are so dangerous, we first need to look at how they are designed and what physically happens when they are plugged in. Unlike standard extension cords that have one plug on one end and open sockets on the other, these recalled items—branded under no specific name but sold by Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology—feature two male ends. Each end has exposed prongs. This design is often referred to as a "pigtail" cable. While they might seem like a convenient shortcut for connecting a generator directly to a home outlet during a power outage, this physical configuration bypasses critical safety mechanisms built into standard electrical systems.

The primary danger lies in the exposed prongs themselves. When you plug one end of this cord into a generator, those metal prongs become energized with live electricity. Because they are not covered by an insulating shell or housed within a socket, they remain exposed and visible. If anyone touches these live prons while they are plugged into the power source, they can receive a severe electric shock. This is not a minor tingle; it poses a significant risk of serious injury or death from electrocution. The hazard is immediate and physical: bare metal carrying high voltage, waiting for contact.

There is a second, more complex layer to this danger involving the concept of "backfeeding." Normally, electricity flows in one direction—from the utility grid into your home. When you use a male-to-male cord to connect a generator to an outlet, you are forcing electricity to flow backward through your home’s wiring. This can energize the wires leading out of your house and onto power lines outside. If a utility worker is repairing the power lines at that moment, unaware that your generator is pushing power back into the grid, they could be electrocuted. Furthermore, this improper connection can cause electrical arcs or short circuits within your home’s wiring, creating a serious fire hazard.

Finally, the physical design of these cords contributes to another life-threatening risk: carbon monoxide poisoning. These recalled cords are relatively short, measuring between 23.6 inches and 59 inches long. Because the cord is so short, users are physically encouraged to place their generator very close to the house—often right next to a window, door, or vent—to reach the outlet. Generators produce exhaust containing carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that kills by preventing your blood from carrying oxygen. When a generator sits too close to a home, this deadly gas can be drawn directly into living spaces through open windows or ventilation systems. The short length of the cord inadvertently traps users in proximity to this invisible threat.

Who is most at risk

The individuals facing the highest level of danger from these recalled Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology extension cords are homeowners and renters who rely on portable generators to maintain power during outages. These male-to-male extension cords, often referred to as pigtail cables, are specifically designed to connect a generator directly into a home’s wall outlet. Consequently, the primary group at risk includes anyone who has purchased these blue or yellow heavy-duty cords from Walmart and uses them to back-feed electricity into their residential electrical system. If you bought model numbers RY-US-06 or RY_US-1.5 and used them to link your generator to your house, you are directly exposed to the hazards outlined in this recall.

Beyond the general user base, certain physical circumstances make specific individuals more vulnerable to these particular dangers. The short length of the cords, measuring between 23.6 inches and 59 inches, is a critical factor. Because the cord is so short, users are forced to place their generators extremely close to their homes or even inside enclosed spaces like garages to reach an outlet. This proximity dramatically increases the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning for everyone in the household. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can kill quickly. Those who spend time near the generator during operation, such as when refueling or checking connections, are at immediate risk of inhaling lethal levels of this gas.

Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are particularly vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning. Their bodies may be less able to cope with the reduced oxygen levels in the blood, leading to severe health complications or death even at lower exposure levels than what might affect a healthy adult. Furthermore, individuals with mobility issues may find it difficult to safely move a heavy generator away from their home if they realize the danger too late, prolonging their exposure to exhaust fumes.

In addition to the environmental hazard of carbon monoxide, the risk of electrocution poses a severe threat to anyone interacting with the exposed prongs of these cords. The hazard exists because the prongs can become energized when plugged into a power source. Children who might wander near a generator setup or curious pets that could chew on the cord are at significant risk. If a child touches an exposed, live prong, the result can be fatal electrocution. Similarly, adults who are fatigued, distracted, or working in poor lighting conditions during a storm-related power outage may accidentally touch the live end of the cord while trying to unplug it. The CPSC warns that this risk is not theoretical; there have been incidents involving serious injury and death. Therefore, anyone living in a household with children, pets, or individuals who may be physically impaired or cognitively distracted during emergencies must treat these cords as immediate threats and remove them from use without delay.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether you possess one of these specific male-to-male extension cords requires a close look at both the physical characteristics of the cable and the documentation associated with your purchase. Because these items are often sold under generic descriptions or as part of bulk packs, relying solely on color can be misleading, though it serves as an initial visual cue. The recalled products are heavy-duty extension cords available in either blue or yellow insulation. Unlike standard household extension cords that feature one male plug and one female socket, these "pigtail cables" have two male ends, each terminating in a three-prong black plug. This distinctive dual-plug configuration is the primary functional identifier, designed specifically to connect two outlets together rather than power a device.

To confirm you have the exact models subject to this recall, you must locate the model numbers printed on the product or its packaging. The specific items involved are those with model numbers RY-US-06 and RY_US-1.5. These identifiers indicate the length of the cord in meters, corresponding to lengths ranging from 23.6 inches to 59 inches. If you do not see the model number clearly printed on the cord itself, check your purchase order or receipt. The recall notice emphasizes that the model number is often recorded on the documentation rather than visibly embossed on the cable jacket, so reviewing your records of where and when you bought the item is crucial.

Additionally, verify where you purchased the cord to help narrow down the potential risk. These male-to-male extension cords were sold at Walmart stores. They are rated for 125 volts and are constructed as 12AWG heavy-duty cables. If you acquired a blue or yellow two-ended plug cable from Walmart that matches these specifications, it is highly likely to be part of this recall. Take the time to physically inspect any generator cords you own; if they have two male plugs and lack a grounding pin configuration typical of standard outdoor extensions, treat them as suspect until you can verify the model number against the list above.

Once you have identified the physical traits, do not rely on memory alone. Retrieve your receipt or check your online order history for Walmart transactions around the time of purchase. Look specifically for model numbers RY-US-06 or RY_US-1.5. If you cannot find the documentation and are unsure, assume the cord is part of the recall if it matches the physical description: a blue or yellow, heavy-duty cable with two male three-prong plugs, sold at Walmart. When in doubt, the safest course of action is to stop using the item immediately and contact the manufacturer for verification.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

In situations involving serious safety hazards like electrocution and carbon monoxide poisoning, the remedy provided by the manufacturer is often straightforward but critical to execute correctly. For this specific recall of Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology male-to-male extension cords, the official remedy is a full refund. It is important to understand that there is no repair option available for these items. The design flaw inherent in male-to-male extension cords—specifically their ability to backfeed electricity from a generator into a home’s wiring system—is fundamental to how the product functions. Therefore, attempting to modify or "fix" the cord would not eliminate the danger; it would only leave you with a compromised tool that still poses significant risks. The only safe resolution is to remove the hazardous item from your environment entirely and receive compensation for it.

To obtain your refund, you must contact Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology directly. This is the sole authorized channel for processing returns under this recall. Do not attempt to return these items to Walmart or other retail locations unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer, as standard retail return policies may not cover safety recalls in the same way a direct manufacturer remedy does. When you reach out to Shenzhen Shijingjie Network Technology, be prepared to provide proof of purchase if you have it on hand, although the recall notice indicates that the model numbers (RY-US-06 and RY_US-1.5) are the primary identifiers for eligibility. The company has committed to issuing a full refund, meaning you should receive back the entire amount you paid for the cord, without any restocking fees or penalties.

The process of securing your refund is designed to be as simple as possible because the urgency of the hazard takes precedence over bureaucratic hurdles. However, patience and clear communication are key. When you contact the manufacturer, clearly state that you are initiating a recall return for a male-to-male extension cord due to the electrocution and carbon monoxide risks outlined in the CPSC announcement. Keep a record of your communication, including any case numbers, email confirmations, or tracking numbers for returned items. This documentation protects you if there are any delays in processing your refund.

While waiting for your refund to be processed, it is vital that you continue to keep the recalled cords out of use. Do not attempt to sell them, give them away, or repurpose them for other electrical tasks. The danger persists regardless of whether you have received your money yet. Once your refund is confirmed and the hazardous cord has been safely disposed of (cutting up the prongs to prevent anyone else from using them), you can then look into safer alternatives for your power needs. This might include purchasing a properly rated transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician, which allows you to connect a generator to your home safely without the risk of backfeeding or exposing yourself and utility workers to live wires.

What can happen if you ignore it

When you choose to keep using a recalled male-to-male extension cord, you are essentially bypassing the critical safety barriers designed to protect you and your community from immediate, life-threatening dangers. The core issue with these specific pigtail cables is not merely that they are "unsafe," but that they create multiple, overlapping pathways for disaster. If you continue to use this cord to connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring, you are engaging in an act known as backfeeding. While it might seem like a convenient way to keep the lights on during an outage, it completely removes the isolation between your home’s electrical system and the public power grid.

The most severe consequence of ignoring this recall is the risk of electrocution to utility workers. When you backfeed electricity into your home, that current travels backward through your meter and onto the local power lines. If a lineman is working on those lines to restore power for your neighborhood, unaware that they are de-energized, they can come into direct contact with live voltage sent from your generator. This can result in severe burns, cardiac arrest, or death for the worker. Beyond this tragic possibility, you also put yourself and your family at risk of serious injury. The exposed prongs on these cords can become energized if handled carelessly. If you touch a live prong while unplugging it, or if a child reaches out to touch it, the result can be fatal electrocution. The recall notice specifically highlights that these hazards are not theoretical; they are direct results of the cord’s design violating fundamental electrical safety standards.

In addition to the immediate threat of electricity, ignoring this recall exposes you to the silent killer: carbon monoxide poisoning. These short cords encourage users to place their generators very close to their homes or in enclosed spaces like garages to make the connection easier. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can build up rapidly in living spaces. By using this cord, you are likely enabling the very behavior that leads to CO levels rising inside your house. Symptoms of poisoning include headaches, dizziness, and nausea, but prolonged exposure can lead to unconsciousness and death. This risk is compounded because you may not realize the danger until it is too late.

Finally, there is the significant risk of fire. The improper connection of a generator to your home’s electrical system can cause arcing, overheating, and short circuits within your walls or at the outlet itself. This can ignite nearby materials, leading to a house fire that destroys your property and endangers everyone inside. The CPSC has issued this recall because the potential outcomes are not minor inconveniences; they are catastrophic events that can alter lives forever. Continuing to use these cords is a gamble with your safety, your neighbors' safety, and the safety of those trying to help you. The only responsible choice is to stop using them immediately and follow the remedy instructions.

Staying safe: broader tips

When power goes out, it is natural to want to restore electricity quickly, but relying on improper connections like male-to-male extension cords or "pigtail" cables is one of the most dangerous shortcuts you can take. These devices bypass the safety mechanisms built into your home’s electrical panel, such as breakers and ground-fault interrupters, leaving you and emergency responders vulnerable to severe electrocution or fire. Instead of attempting to wire a generator directly into your home’s outlets, always use a properly rated transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician. This device isolates your home from the utility grid, preventing backfeeding—a phenomenon where electricity flows backward into power lines and can energize them while linemen are working to restore service elsewhere.

If you must use a generator during an outage, prioritize placement and ventilation above all else. Generators produce carbon monoxide, an invisible, odorless gas that can kill you in your sleep or disorient you before you realize the danger. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, basement, or even near windows, doors, or vents. Place it outside, at least 20 feet away from your home, with the exhaust pointing away from living spaces. This distance is critical because wind can carry the gas back toward your house, and the short length of recalled cords often tempts users to place generators too close to structures for convenience.

Always use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords designed specifically for this purpose. Look for cords labeled with a "W-A" or "WA" rating, which indicates they are suitable for both wet and outdoor conditions. Avoid cheap, thin wires that can overheat under load. Connect your appliances directly to the generator using these rated cords, rather than trying to plug into household outlets. This method ensures that the power path is safe, grounded, and protected against the hazards of backfeeding.

Finally, maintain a culture of vigilance in your home regarding safety devices. Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas, and test them monthly with fresh batteries. Similarly, ensure your smoke detectors are functional. Regularly check for product recalls by visiting official government databases like the CPSC website or subscribing to their email alerts. Taking these proactive steps does not prevent every accident, but it significantly reduces the risk of injury and ensures that you are protected even when unexpected hazards arise.