Parents often include outlet covers on their shopping lists when childproofing their homes. However, they frequently require assistance picking goods that curious children cannot readily remove from an outlet. There are three different kinds of outlet covers you may use in childproofing outlets. Some of these choices are superior to others. Parents must choose the most appropriate kind of outlet cover because children have a high risk of experiencing severe burns and electric shock if they put foreign things into electrical outlets. Additionally, outlets are often placed low to the ground and are within easy reach of youngsters.
1. Outlet Plugs
Plugs for outlets, available in various sizes and forms, offer many advantages, including low cost and the potential to be useful while traveling. Because children can usually learn to remove these plugs and will often put them in their mouths, they can pose a choking hazard. This is particularly important to remember when dealing with older outlets, as they may be unable to hold the plugs firmly into place. In addition, caretakers often need to remember to return outlet plugs after using them for routine purposes.
Invest in plugs for the outlets that are too large for a young kid to choke on. They pose a choking risk if they can fit in an area the size of a toilet paper roll. Stay away from the charming or bright ones since they will draw your child’s attention to the plugs. After placing the outlet plugs, you should test them. They should be tough for you to remove, which indicates that they will also be difficult for curious young children to remove.
2. Sliding Outlet Covers
The sliding outlet cover, which is sometimes called a self-closing cover, is the second option. Simply remove the screw that secures the original cover plate, and then replace it with the sliding outlet cover. When someone unplugs something, the cover automatically seals over the socket holes. This outlet option is safer since there is no risk of someone choking on the outlet plug, and there is also no need to depend on anybody to remember to reinstall it. It is also impossible for small children to remove. There are several variants available to choose from. They can be found at most retailers.
3. Box Outlet Covers
Box outlet covers are a third alternative to consider. These items are available in various sizes, allowing them to cover electrical plugs of varying shapes and sizes and the outlet. Various alternatives can cater to the dimensions of bigger adapters. Box outlet covers are fantastic devices for goods usually plugged in and prevent a youngster from messing with an electrical plug. You can find these covers at most home improvement stores. In addition, the covers may be quickly removed if you need to use the outlet.
Warnings Against Using Tamper-Resistant Outlets
In order to get electrical power from a tamper-resistant outlet, you must insert two separate things simultaneously. They have a shutter mechanism you can open by applying the same amount of pressure to both sides of the receptacle. This enables you to place the plugs into the receptacle. Although tamper-resistant outlets lessen the danger of electrical injury, you should note that these outlets are not entirely secure. Sadly, some individuals have the misconception that tamper-resistant outlets are also “childproof,” despite the fact that this is not the case. Children are not prevented from emulating adults and placing plugs into sockets even if the outlets have tamper-resistant covers. If children have access to the plugs, they may be able to switch on potentially hazardous electrical devices found throughout the house. Some examples of these things are extension cables, shredders, small appliances, and curling irons. In addition, it may be difficult to determine whether or not the shutters on tamper-resistant outlets have any damage.
5. The Importance of Protecting Electrical Outlets from Children
Because babies and toddlers are inherently curious, an electrical outlet in the wall might seem fascinating and worthy of further investigation by these age groups. Parents take children to the emergency room daily to treat shocks and burns sustained due to sticking things into electrical sockets. This situation may be easily prevented by childproofing your electrical connections.
Whether your kid is only imitating your activities by pretending to plug something into the socket or they have discovered a new area for their toys to go exploring, there are methods to avoid electrical burns and injuries, even while you aren’t watching them.
As your children age, you must teach them about the risks associated with electrical outlets and the significance of practicing safe electrical practices. Instruct children to never stick anything into electrical outlets and to keep their hands dry whenever they come into contact with electrical cables or equipment. You can avoid accidents and ensure your kid’s safety near electrical outlets by having these important conversations.
Children may be enticed to tug on electrical cables, resulting in losing or unplugging an item. To avoid this, store all electrical cables out of reach and secure them with cord organizers or cable ties. In addition, you should avoid using extension cables whenever feasible since they might create a danger of tripping and increase the possibility of receiving an electrical shock.
Rely on the Pros
Implementing childproofing measures for electrical outlets is essential for maintaining a safe environment for young children within your home. At Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air, we recognize the significance of prioritizing your family’s safety. As a result, we provide valuable insights and suggestions on how to childproof electrical outlets effectively. By offering the installation of tamper-resistant receptacles, outlet covers, and additional safety devices, our team of experienced electricians aims to enhance the safety of your children’s home.
We also offer a complete line of important electrical services, including safety inspections. Additionally, our team offers plumbing and drain solutions. We also specialize in all types of HVAC units, including installation, repair, and maintenance of heat pumps and traditional units. Our clients also rely on our air duct cleaning services to help them maintain a healthy home. However, the indoor air quality services we offer extend beyond duct cleaning services. We can install air filtration services designed to provide your home with the cleanest air possible. While HVAC and electrical services can become costly, financing is available on approved credit.
Serving Magic Valley and Treasure Valley and surrounding areas, Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air has been in business since 2013. We designed our business model to be customer focused. Our qualified professionals arrive with fully stocked work vehicles containing all the equipment needed to provide you with quality and timely services. Additionally, the technicians undergo extensive training in order to stay up to date with the latest technology, installation methods, and code requirements. We have won awards for our excellent service. As active members of the community, we are heavily involved in funding and participating in local charities.
Contact Magic Electric, Plumbing, Heating + Air with any questions you might have about childproofing your outlets or any other service we provide.
