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Tips to Childproof Your Electrical Outlets
Tips to Childproof Your Electrical Outlets
February 01, 2023

Tips to Childproof Your Electrical Outlets

Babies and toddlers are fond of getting their hands on everything around them. Once babies learn to crawl and toddlers start walking, they can be difficult to control. Their curiosity leads them to virtually everything, including electrical outlets. As a result, it’s your responsibility as a parent or guardian to childproof your electrical outlets to ensure your kids do not injure themselves.

These are some of the reliable ways to childproof your electrical outlets.

  • Cover outlets that aren’t used

The easiest way to childproof your electrical outlets is to cover unused outlets. Simply covering your outlets using plastic plug covers can help in childproofing your outlets. These covers are cheap and can be found in department stores.

However, plastic plug covers can be a choking hazard if your child manages to pull them out of the socket. It’s advisable to avoid colorful plastic caps.  

Another type of outlet cover you can use to childproof your electrical outlets is the sliding outlet cover. This cover features a retractable face that is pushed to one side when you want to plug something in. When you’re not using the outlet, the cover snaps back to a position where it covers the openings.

Sliding outlet covers eliminate the choking hazard of plastic plug covers.

  • Install tamper-resistant outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets have shutters that close off the openings until the proper plug is inserted. These outlets prevent children from sticking things into the slots. 

  • Install box outlet covers

Box outlet covers completely cover your outlet, making them the most effective way to childproof your electrical outlets. These covers are difficult for children to manipulate. However, box outlet covers can be inconvenient when installed on outlets that are used frequently. This makes them effective for covering outlets that stay plugged in for an extended period.

  • Cover power strips

If there are power strips and bars that you absolutely need, you can childproof them using power strip covers.

  • Don’t depend on extension cords

With their curiosity, children can be tempted to pull or even chew extension cords. Moreover, they can trip over the cords as they run around the house. Instead of relying on extension cords, install more electrical outlets in your home so that you don’t depend on these cords. If you must use extension cords, keep them away from children.

Contact Neighborhood Electric for Electrical Outlet Replacement

Ready to start childproofing electrical outlets in your home? Call Neighborhood Electric to get started. Childproofing your electrical outlets will not only improve the safety of your home, but it will also give you valuable peace of mind.

At Neighborhood Electric, we also provide electrical outlet replacement and electrical outlet repair. When you notice signs such as plugs that keep falling out, chips or cracks in the faceplate, or outlets that are hot to touch, call an "electrician near me" as soon as possible.

If you have any questions on childproofing your electrical outlets or would like experienced electricians to do it for you, be sure to contact Neighborhood Electric.