Electrical Child-Proofing and Safety Tips

• Outlet Covers

Children are naturally curious about many things and may try to explore electrical outlets. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, nearly 2400 children suffer injuries each year from sticking items into electrical outlets. It’s best to use safety plugs to cover unused outlets and prevent curious fingers from poking inside.

• Cord Management

Kids love to run and play throughout your house, and anything that can be a tripping hazard should be removed or secured. Whenever possible, route electrical cords behind furniture or along baseboards to minimize exposure. Other ways you can secure cords from curious kids include running them through cord covers, using cord shorteners to wind up excess cords, or securing them to walls or furniture. Most importantly, explain the dangers of playing with electrical cords and encourage your kids to leave them alone.

• Appliance Safety

Your curious kids may stick objects into blenders, toasters, and other appliances or try to touch ovens and stoves. It’s a good idea to store appliances out of reach when not in use. Also, make sure you supervise children around appliances and teach them about the dangers of electricity and the proper use of appliances.

• Install GFCI Outlets

This is a crucial electrical safety measure, not just for kids but for everyone. GFCI outlets are meant to block electrical current in the event of a ground fault, an electrical fault, or a short circuit. Consequently, these outlets prevent electrocution and electrical fires. GFCI outlets are often installed in areas where water could come into contact with electrical circuits, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages. Make sure you test your GFCI outlets at least once a month and after power outages to ensure they’re working properly. If you notice signs of any problems, call Mr. Electric for electrical repair service.

• Always Plug Off Unused Electronics

It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to electrical safety. Leaving electronics plugged in when not in use only invites the curious hands of children. For instance, a dangling charger cord can be tempting for a child to pull on, potentially causing an electrical shock. Plugging off unused electricians gives you confidence that your kids are safe. In addition, it saves you energy by eliminating phantom energy—which is the standby power that devices and appliances consume when they are not in use.

• Regular Inspections

It’s important to inspect the electrical cords and appliances in your home and take the necessary action to avoid safety risks. Most importantly, hire a professional electrician in Holladay to perform an electrical safety inspection in your home and make the necessary repairs. A regular inspection will ensure everyone in your home is always safe from electrical hazards.

• Teach Electrical Safety

This is the bare minimum you can do to protect your children from electrical hazards. Educate them about the dangers of electricity and emphasize the importance of following safety guidelines.

Need help with child-proofing your electrical system? Contact Mr. Electric today.