How To Childproof Your Home To Prevent Electrical Accidents
Whether you are expecting a new baby or moving homes with your child, one of the first things you are likely to think about is a childproof home. Your child is the most precious person in the world to you, and you want to take every precaution to ensure they are free of harm in your home. While there are intuitive steps to childproof — like hiding sharp objects and locking away medicines — keeping kids safe from electrical hazards can seem more complicated. But it only seems complicated.
There are some very simple steps you can take to childproof your home against electrical dangers.
House‑Wide Electrical Hazards
- Outlets - Empty outlets reachable by children can be very tempting. Fill them with outlet covers or caps that plug in flush and are difficult for small hands to remove. Another solution is installing tamper‑resistant receptacles which only open when both prongs of a plug are inserted.
- Power Strips - Power strips or power bars are usually on the ground where kids can easily access them. Use outlet caps on unused outlets and consider wall‑mounting power strips behind furniture or using protective covers for extra safety.
Room‑by‑Room Electrical Safety
- The Kitchen - Unplug small appliances when not in use and keep cords tucked away out of reach. Dangling cords can be pulled on or chewed by curious little ones.
- Bathroom - Electricity and water are a dangerous combo. Any bathroom appliance (hairdryers, electric razors, etc.) should be unplugged and stored somewhere children cannot reach.
- Basement & Garage - Wherever your breaker panel is located, ensure no stool or chair is nearby that could help a child reach it. Store power tools and other electrical equipment safely out of children’s reach and consider keeping kids out of these areas without supervision.
In The Event Of An Emergency
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Have emergency contacts readily accessible, including your doctor and the closest hospital. Invest in a fire extinguisher (or multiple for larger homes) placed out of reach of children and make sure all adults in the house know how to use it.
General Electrical Safety
If your electrical wiring is old or your breaker isn’t functioning properly, have a professional inspect and fix it. A properly maintained electrical system is a key part of a truly childproof home. If in doubt, contact a certified electrician to help ensure your electrical systems and appliances are running safely and efficiently.
Get A Free Quote
Our Services
Your Local Electrician Across the South Denver Area
As your local electrician across the South Denver area, we bring dependable service and a strong understanding of the needs of homes throughout the community. Our team is committed to showing up on time, communicating clearly, and delivering quality workmanship on every project, no matter the size. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and long-term results, we are proud to be a trusted choice for homeowners across the region.