How To Childproof Electrical Outlets in Your Home

Your home comprises an array of electrical fixtures needed to get you through each day in comfort and convenience. While many electrical appliances are often a necessity, they may still pose hazards if the proper measures aren’t taken.

Ensuring your children are safe around your electrical system is crucial. To get the most out of your outlets while guaranteeing maximum safety, there are tips and tricks to implement into your routine. Here, we discuss some ways to childproof your electrical outlets to improve the safety of your loved ones. 

Use Outlet Covers or Plugs To Block Access

One easy and seamless tip is to block access by using covers for your outlets or plugs. A cover is designed to prevent children from inserting their fingers or other objects into the slots, which can lead to harm.

Different types of covers include sliding, pressure-fit, and tamper-resistant. Sliding covers use sliding plates that block access to the outlet when it’s not in use. They provide permanent protection and don’t need to be removed for outlet access; however, they’re a bit pricy and require installation.

Pressure-fit covers are affordable, easy to install, and fit snugly atop covers, though they may be difficult to remove. Lastly, tamper-resistant covers will cover your outlet completely but may be less convenient to use.

Install Tamper-Resistant Outlets for Extra Security

In addition to outlet covers, upgrading to a tamper-resistant outlet will provide added security. TR outlets are a safer option for long-term security over standard covers, as they’re designed for more permanent use.

The design helps prevent children from sticking objects into the outlet by only opening when both prongs of a plug are inserted with equal pressure. They also aren’t made up of small parts that may pose a choking hazard.

Use Furniture & Appliances To Block Outlets

Another simple solution for significant security is to use furniture and other appliances to block access to your outlets. Rearranging large furniture like couches and bookshelves to lay flush against your wall is a surefire way to keep children from reaching outlets.

Also, ensure other electrical appliances and cords are further from reach to avoid risks.

Teach Your Children About Electrical Safety

All in all, educating your kids on electrical safety is good practice. Using age-appropriate rules, like prohibiting playing around electrical outlets and other appliances, can minimize electrical risks.

Comparing outlet risks with other risks, like touching hot stoves or irons, can show just how dangerous these appliances can be. For older children, leading by example by showing the proper ways to plug in cords and use electrical appliances is a useful technique.

Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection for Peace of Mind

For a better safety guarantee, schedule expert electrical safety inspection services with JDV Electric. Locally owned and operated, our team was founded in 2005, and our background-checked and drug-tested team receives ongoing training of over 100 hours a year.

We’ll arrive at each appointment with trucks that are fully stocked with high-quality materials. We aim to provide unparalleled honesty and integrity with every service we handle, and we also offer financing options for your benefit.

Ready to get started? Equip your home today with improved electrical safety by scheduling an appointment with our team.