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When it comes to babyproofing your home, one of the most critical areas to address is electrical safety. Curious toddlers are naturally drawn to outlets and cords, which can pose significant dangers if not properly secured. Each year, approximately 2,400 children suffer severe shock and burns from sticking objects into electrical outlets, and about 7 children per day are treated in emergency rooms for electrical shock or burn injuries.
Toddlers often engage in activities like unplugging cords from outlets, chewing on them, tripping over them, pulling cords and bringing down attached appliances, wrapping cords around their necks, and playing with damaged cords, all of which can lead to serious injuries. This guide covers essential steps to secure your home by childproofing electrical outlets and managing cords effectively.
From using outlet plugs and sliding covers to organizing and concealing cords, we’ll provide you with the best methods and recommend top-rated child proof electrical outlet covers to keep your little ones safe from electrical hazards.
In order to ensure the safety of little ones, it is crucial to effectively baby-proof various types of electrical outlets. Let’s explore the appropriate methods for each type of outlet to create a secure environment for your child.
Baby-Proofing Solutions
There are different electrical outlet covers you can use for baby proofing. Let’s take a closer look at them and how to use and install them.
Tamper-Resistant Outlet Covers
Tamper-resistant outlets are designed with a built-in shutter mechanism that blocks foreign objects from being inserted. They only allow plugs to be inserted when both prongs press into the outlet simultaneously.
When it comes to using tamper-resistant outlets, you can replace existing standard outlets with tamper-resistant ones. If you are not comfortable doing it, it is advisable to call an electrician.
During installation, you should turn off the power to the outlet at the circuit breaker. Proceed to remove the existing outlet cover and unscrew the outlet from the electrical box. The wires should also be disconnected from the old outlet and connected to the new tamper-resistant outlet. Screw the new outlet into the electrical box, attach the outlet cover and turn the power back on and finally test the outlet.
Plastic Outlet Covers with Prongs
These are simple plastic plugs that insert into the outlet, preventing children from sticking objects into them. When selecting a plastic cover, ensure it suits your type of outlet if it is standard or decorator. When using the plastic covers, insert the prongs of the plastic cover into the outlet and make sure it is difficult for a child to remove.
Outlet Boxes
These come in various sizes to cover both small and large electrical plugs and the outlet itself. They can accommodate larger adapters as well. Box outlet covers are ideal for items that remain plugged in, preventing children from tampering with the plugs. Additionally, the covers can be easily removed when access to the outlet is needed.
Ensure that the outlet box you select is fit for your outlet, install the box over the outlet and secure it in place.
Self-closing/sliding outlet covers
The sliding outlet cover or self-closing cover can be easily installed by removing the screw from the existing cover plate and replacing it with the sliding outlet cover. When an item is unplugged, the cover automatically closes over the socket holes, enhancing safety by eliminating the choking hazard of an outlet plug and eliminating the need to remember to reinstall a cover.
Parents don’t have to worry about their baby crawling over and removing this type of cover. Various versions are available for different types of outlets.
How to Baby Proof Power Strips
Power strips, with their concentration of outlets and cords, can be particularly attractive to curious little hands. Here are ways to baby-proof power strips.
- Power Strip Cover
Power strips are generally made of plastic and are designed to cover the entire power strip preventing access to plugs and sockets. When purchasing a power strip cover, ensure it is the right size for your power strip.
During installation of the cover, insert the power strip inside the cover and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that it is securely closed so that your child cannot open it.
- Outlet Plug Covers
Outlet plug covers can be inserted into the unused sockets of the power strip to prevent kids from putting objects into the sockets. When purchasing outlet covers, ensure that they are enough to fit all the unused sockets of your power strip. To use, push the plug covers into the unused sockets until they are flush with the power strip.
- Secure the Power Strip Out of Reach
Another effective way to baby-proof power strips is by placing the power strip in a location that is difficult for children to spot and access. This can be achieved if you place power strips behind furniture or secure them to a wall or baseboard to prevent children from tampering with them.
How to Baby Proof Cords
When loose and dangling cords are not addressed, they pose a risk of strangulation and in other times electrocution if chewed on. Below are effective methods you can baby proof cords:
- Cord Shorteners or Winders
Cord shorteners or winders are used to reduce the length of cords making them less accessible to children. When purchasing cords or shorteners, select the ones suitable for the type and length of cords that need managing. The excess length of the cord should be wrapped around shorteners or winders. Ensure the cords are tightly wound and secure to prevent them from unraveling.
- Cord Concealers or Covers
Cord concealers or covers assist in hiding cords making them less visible and accessible to children. Consider cord concealers or covers that match your wall or décor for aesthetic purposes. During installation of concealers, attach them to the wall or baseboard, running the cords through the concealers. Ensure the ends of the covers are securely attached so the cords cannot be pulled out.
- Cable Clips or Holders
Cable clips or holders keep cords in order or organized and inaccessible. When buying cable clips or holders, select the ones that can be attached to walls, furniture or other surfaces.
Attach the clips or holders to install, secure them to the desired surface for example the back of a piece of furniture or along the wall. For organization purposes, run the cords through the clips or holders. This will keep them neat and out of reach.
- Bundle Cords Together
Bundling cords together will reduce the number of loose and dangling cords. This will make it easier to manage the cords. To begin, collect or gather all the cords that need to be bundled together in order to secure them.
Secure the cords together using cable ties or velcro straps. Ensure the bundle is out of reach by placing the bundled cord in a location that is difficult for kids to access.
Beyond the Basics
Beyond the basic steps of baby-proofing, parents can take additional measures to enhance their child’s safety around electricity. Educating children about the dangers of electricity is crucial; parents should have age-appropriate conversations to explain why they should never touch outlets, cords, or electrical devices without adult supervision.
Incorporating interactive and engaging safety lessons, such as using child-friendly videos or books on electrical safety, can reinforce this understanding.
Consistent adult supervision is also vital, especially in areas with many electrical devices. Establishing a routine of regularly inspecting and maintaining all baby-proofing measures ensures they remain effective. Additionally, involving older siblings in monitoring and reinforcing safety rules can create a more vigilant home environment. These proactive steps, combined with basic baby-proofing, help build a comprehensive approach to protecting children from electrical hazards.
Takeaway
Baby-proofing electrical outlets and cords is essential for creating a safe home environment for young children. This involves several steps and products, starting with understanding the types of outlets in your home. Tamper-resistant outlet covers, plastic outlet covers with prongs, outlet boxes, and self-closing sliding covers offer various levels of protection.
For power strips, using covers, securing them out of reach, and managing cords effectively can prevent accidents. Additionally, utilizing cord shorteners, concealers, and bundling techniques helps keep cords organized and inaccessible.
Beyond these basic measures, educating children about electrical safety, ensuring consistent adult supervision, and regularly inspecting safety installations are crucial for maintaining a hazard-free home. By combining these methods, parents can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents and ensure a safer environment for their children.