Electrical Safety for Kids
During Electrical Safety Month, we like to refresh our readers on important electrical safety tips that can be used on a practical level, and nothing is more practical than keeping kids safe. Whether you have kids of your own or kids who visit your home frequently, it’s important to be aware of these electrical safety tips.
Install Childproof Outlets
Toddlers love to stick fingers, objects and pretty much anything they can get their hands on into small spaces. Outlets are an extremely dangerous source of temptation for them to do just that. Although there are several childproofing items on the market specifically made for outlets, the especially crafty toddler still may be able to pry it off. Installing electrician-approved childproof outlets that can’t be removed by little hands are the best way to ensure the safety of little ones that may be a bit too curious for their own good.
Don’t Overload Outlets
Most kids use electronics every day, and while it’s important to allow kids to figure out how things work on their own, we also need to guide them along the way when it comes to electrical safety. An important thing to teach your kids is not to overload one outlet or extension cord. Try keeping one particular outlet designated for charging their electronic devices and periodically check on it to make sure they’re not overloading it. If any outlet is sparking or is omitting a burning odor, discontinue use and call Mr. Electric right away.
Keep Liquids Away from Cords and Outlets
Kids are always snacking, so be sure to remind them never to keep their cups or juice boxes by an outlet or cord, or any electronic that is plugged in. When liquid gets into an outlet, it could cause a short that could cause damage to your entire electrical system or start an electrical fire. Whether children live in your home or not, your kitchen and bathrooms should be fitted with GFCI outlets, since the risk of shock is higher due to the presence of water near electrical outlets. GFCI outlets monitor the amount of electricity flow in a particular circuit and will stop it when an imbalance is detected, preventing electrical shock. If your home is not equipped with GFCI outlets, call Mr. Electric right away for installation.
Teach Cord Safety
Electrical safety for kids involves teaching them simple concepts as soon as they’re old enough to understand them. If you teach your children from a young age how to safely plug a cord into an outlet and remove it, they’re more likely to be more conscious of how they use electronics as they grow. Electrical cords should never be yanked out of a socket since excessive force can cause the components of an outlet to be pulled out of place, which can lead to exposed wires and fire hazards. Kids should be taught to remove cords gently and never force a plug into an outlet that isn’t fitting correctly.
Watch for Electrical Equipment Outside
Electrical safety for kids doesn’t just include the inside of your home. When playing outside, make sure you warn kids of the dangers of playing near green pad mount transformers, often called electrical boxes, especially playing in the dirt surrounding them. Electrical boxes indicate that there are electrical wires buried underneath the ground, so kids should steer clear of that area entirely. Tell them if they notice any damage to the boxes or components not to touch them and to tell you right away so you can call your electric company.
Call Your Local Electrician at the First Sign of a Problem
We hope these electrical safety tips gave you some helpful ideas for keeping your kids safe. If you have any questions about electrical safety for kids or have an issue with the electrical system in your home, our friendly electricians are here to help. Contact your local Mr. Electric or schedule an appointment today.
As part of keeping your entire household safe, Rainbow International has an excellent resource for preventing electrical fires. Rainbow International is part of Neighborly’s community of home service professionals. You can count of your local Rainbow International for home restoration services, including fire, water, mold and odor.
