Abstract: The present invention relates to a cord for powering a cooling element including a thermally-actuated switch assembly and a method of controlling a cooling element through a power cord including a thermally-actuated switch assembly in an alternating current (AC) circuit. The cord assembly includes a multiple conductor wire for carrying power and a heat reactive element. The heat reactive element is connected in line and integral with one of the conductors of the wire. The heat reactive element functions as a switch to conduct power through the wire in one state and to interrupt power through the wire in a second state. The heat reactive element changes from one state to the other state in response to ambient air temperature.