Little Hands, Big Dangers! Top 7 Child-Proofing Tips to Avoid Electrical Injuries
Let’s face it, kids are naturally curious. Give a toddler a room full of toys, and they’ll still make a beeline for the outlet behind the couch. As cute (and exhausting) as that curiosity can be, it’s also what makes child-proofing your home’s electrical system so important.
Children under five are at the greatest risk for home electrical injuries. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), each year, around 2,400 children in the U.S. are treated for injuries caused by inserting objects into electrical outlets. Most of these could be prevented with a few simple safety upgrades.
Here are 7 easy, affordable ways to make your outlets and devices safer
🔌 1. Use Tamper-Resistant (TR) Outlets
If your home was built or renovated after 2008, it may already have tamper-resistant outlets, they’re required by code in all new construction. These outlets have spring-loaded shutters that block anything except a properly inserted plug.
If your home has older outlets, you can:
- Upgrade to TR outlets with the help of a licensed electrician.
- Temporarily use outlet covers or caps (see next point).
Tamper-resistant outlets are the most foolproof option. They stay in place, don’t get lost, and don’t rely on you remembering to cover anything up.
🧲 2. Install Outlet Covers or Sliding Plate Covers
If replacing outlets isn’t in the budget, outlet caps and sliding covers are a simple alternative.
- Plastic outlet caps are cheap and easy to install. They plug directly into the socket and block access. However, determined toddlers can sometimes pry them off, and they’re small enough to pose a choking hazard.
- Sliding outlet covers replace your existing outlet plates and automatically block the slots when not in use. They’re more secure and a great semi-permanent fix.
Whichever type you choose, make sure it’s snug, secure, and not something your child can easily remove.
🧵 3. Keep Cords Out of Reach
Cords are like magnets for kids. They’re enticing to tug on or chew on.
They’re also a tripping hazard. Here’s how to make cords safer:
- Use cord shorteners or winders to keep excess length wrapped up.
- Furniture anchors can be used to route cords behind or under furniture so little hands can’t reach them.
- Cord covers or raceways can hide cords along baseboards or walls.
BONUS SAFETY TIP: Never run cords under rugs!
They can overheat and become a fire hazard. Always check for frayed or damaged cords. If a cord’s insulation is cracked, replace it immediately.
🪫 4. Be Careful with Power Strips and Extension Cords
Power strips are convenient, but they’re also a major hazard in homes with kids. An open strip full of live outlets is basically an invitation to trouble.
- Power strip covers are used to encase the entire unit in child-resistant housing.
- Choose strips with built-in circuit breakers or surge protection.
- Mount them out of reach when possible.
- Extension cords should only be used temporarily and stored away when not needed.
BONUS SAFETY TIP: Never “daisy chain” multiple strips or overload them with too many plugs.
🔋 5. Secure Devices and Chargers
Today’s homes are full of electronics; phones, tablets, laptops, smart speakers, baby monitors. All of them come with charging cables, power bricks, and potential hazards.
- Unplug chargers when not in use, many remain live even when not connected to a device.
- Use cable organizers or covers to keep cords tidy and out of sight.
- Be cautious with USB chargers, which often have exposed metal prongs or small removable parts.
- Avoid leaving devices charging on soft surfaces like beds or couches, which can cause overheating or fire.
BONUS SAFETY TIP: Don’t let kids play with devices while they’re plugged in. It may seem harmless, but it’s a real shock risk.
🔌 6. Anchor Large Appliances and Electronics
Electrical safety isn’t just about plugs, it’s also about preventing tip-over hazards.
- Anchor TVs, bookcases, and entertainment centers to the wall.
- Appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and blenders should remain unplugged when not in use.
- Cords from countertop devices should not dangle where kids can grab them.
This not only protects kids from electrical injury but also from heavy objects falling on them.
🧠 7. Teach as They Grow
While physical barriers are great for toddlers, older children benefit from education.
Teach them:
- Not to touch outlets or cords.
- Never to use electrical devices near water.
- How to unplug things safely (by the plug, not the cord).
- What to do in an emergency, like calling 911 or alerting an adult.
Making safety part of normal conversation helps build habits that last.
To ensure your home is safer for children, or even if you simply want an older wiring system inspected, call On Time Electrical for a comprehensive review. Along with a thorough inspection, our licensed and skilled electricians can install tamper-resistant outlets, upgrade outdated electrical panels, and identify hidden hazards.
Give us a call today at (704) 820-4803. You can also visit us online anytime at www.itselectriccharlotte.com.
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