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Child Proof Outlets

Making the Home Safer: Electrical Outlet Protection for Kids

As parents, keeping our children safe and secure is of the utmost importance. One way to ensure that our little ones stay out of harm's way is by childproofing our homes. Outlets are a common source of danger for curious toddlers and young children, who may explore and stick their fingers or objects into them. Protecting these outlets with childproof covers is essential to prevent potential electrical injuries.

Types of Child Proof Outlets

1. Outlet covers

Outlet covers fit over the outlets and provide a barrier between the outlet and curious little fingers. They are easy to install, and you can easily find them in most hardware stores. There are two types of outlet covers available, sliding & Box covers.

Sliding Covers

Sliding covers slide over the outlet and prevent children from sticking their fingers or other objects into the outlet. These covers come in various sizes and colors, but you should choose one that won't attract children. Additionally, they are affordable and the most commonly available solution at hardware stores.

Box Outlet covers

A box outlet cover serves as the face plate for an electrical outlet. They also include extra features, such as tamper-proof locks or special outlets that allow multiple devices to be plugged in simultaneously. Regardless of the type of cover you choose, ensure their proper installation for proper use and operation over time.

2. Plug Protectors

Plug protectors come in a variety of styles to fit every outlet's size and shape. They are easy to use: simply insert the cover into the outlet and plug your device into it. This provides anadditional layer of protection while still allowing access to power outlets when needed. While selecting a plug protector, keep these points in mind.

  • Invest in large-sized plugs for electrical outlets to prevent a toddler or young baby from choking.
  • After using an outlet, remember to replace the plug again.
  • Avoid choosing charming or brightly colored outlets.
  • After installing new plugs for outlets, always give them a try. You shouldn't easily remove them, so you know they'll be safe from curious kids.

3. Inserts & Plates

The most common outlet covers are plastic inserts that fit into an unused outlet, blocking access to the electric slots beneath. These covers are usually white or off-white and readily available in any hardware store or online retailer.

4. Rotating Outlets

We usually find These plugs on extension cords and power strips. The fronts of these outlets rotate 45 degrees when no plug is inserted, leaving the slots inaccessible. When installing a plug, the prongs go in first; the outer cover is rotated to line up with the slots. The rotating cover has the same function as tamper-resistant receptacles, preventing small children from inserting their fingers or other things into the openings.

Professional Installation Options:

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Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRR)

One type of outlet is tamper-resistant, with two spring-loaded shutters only open when both sides of an inserted plug have sufficient pressure simultaneously. It makes it nearly impossible for a child's fingers or small objects to fit in and get hurt.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets can help parents protect their children from electrical shock. They detect an imbalance in electrical current and cut power immediately if they sense any danger, protecting active children from severe shock from high voltage.

The most significant benefit of GFCI outlets is their ability to act quickly, even faster than human response time, thus minimizing damage caused by electric shocks.

Combination Switch Outlet

The combination switch can serve as a regular receptacle and a switch to turn off the power in an emergency. They don't usually reset unless the power is completely cut off, thus providing maximum safety for families with young children living at home.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Childproof Outlet

  • Understand Your Needs
  • Research Safety Ratings
  • Verify Installation Requirements
  • Consider Design and Size
  • Look for Quality Materials
  • Check for Additional Features

Considerations for Older Homes

Outlets in older homes lack built-in safety features such as shutters or covers preventing objects from being inserted. It's always better to replace old outlets with TRR( Temper resistant receptacles) as they are safer for the young ones.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind for Parents

So far, we have discussed all the available options for childproof outlets. All of these are good, and the choice depends on personal preferences. But if you want a reliable option, we recommend replacing your regular outlets with TRR. They are a cheap solution that works so well that the National Electrical Code has required them in all new homes since 2008.

Childproofing your home is a must! It can reduce the risk of injury from electrical outlets by 90%. Call us today for an appointment. We will make it happen!

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