Jerome Yarbrough says the cord was being used to provide power to a part of the house that didn't have electrical service - and had been "crimped" by a closed door and window. Crimping of an extension cord, Yarbrough said, can cause a buildup of heat and, subsequently, a fire.
He caused against using cheap extension cords as a permanent source of power.
Yarbrough also said Tuesday that the house has been declared a total loss.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2004/11/147185