If you have young children or are expecting a baby, you may be wondering how to make your home safer and more comfortable for them. One of the most important aspects of childproofing your home is ensuring that your electrical outlets and wiring are secure and out of reach. Children are naturally curious and may try to touch, poke, or pull-on electrical cords, plugs, or sockets, which can result in serious injuries.
Childproofing your home’s electrical outlets and wiring can be done easily enough to avoid mishaps. Here are some tips from Voltage Electrical Contracting, a Perth-based electrical contractor service provider company that offers high-quality electrical services in Perth.
- Use outlet covers or caps: These plastic devices fit snugly into the sockets and prevent children from inserting anything into them. You can find them at most hardware stores or online. Make sure you choose the ones compatible with your type of outlets that are difficult for children to remove.
- Replace old or damaged outlets: If they are loose, cracked, or broken, they can pose a fire hazard or expose live wires. Replace them with new ones that meet Australian standards as soon as possible. You can hire a professional residential electrician in Perth to do this.
- Install tamper-resistant outlets: These outlets have a built-in mechanism that prevents anything from entering the socket unless it is a proper plug. They are designed to prevent children from inserting objects such as hairpins, keys, or paper clips into the outlets. Tamper-resistant outlets are mandatory in new homes in Australia, but you can also upgrade your existing outlets to these if you want extra protection.
- Use cord shorteners or winders: These devices help keep your electrical cords tidy and out of reach of children. You can wrap the excess cord around them and secure them with a clip or a Velcro strap. This way, you can prevent children from tripping over the cords, pulling, or chewing on them.
- Hide or secure exposed wires: If wires run along the walls, floors, or furniture, hide them behind baseboards, mouldings, or conduits. Alternatively, you can use wire clips, staples, or ties to secure them to the surfaces and prevent children from accessing them. You should also avoid running wires under rugs or carpets, which can cause overheating and fire.
- Educate your child: As your child grows older, explain the dangers of electricity and why certain things are off-limits. Teach them the importance of never touching outlets, cords, or appliances with wet hands.
- Use furniture strategically: Place furniture in a way that blocks access to outlets or prevents children from climbing onto surfaces near exposed wiring.
- Unplug unused appliances: When not in use, unplug appliances to eliminate dangling cords and potential tripping hazards. Consider using power strips with built-in surge protection for additional safety.
- Utilise visual reminders: Place visual reminders such as stickers or labels near outlets and childproof covers with bright colours or fun designs to reinforce electrical safety messages and make outlets less appealing for children to touch or remove.
- Hire an electrical contractor for major work: If you need to install new outlets, switches, lights, or appliances, you should always hire a licensed and experienced electrical contractor to do the job. They will ensure that the work is done safely and correctly and complies with the Australian electrical codes and regulations.
Voltage Electrical Contracting excels in ensuring electrical safety for residences; our expertise extends far beyond that. We also offer various electrical services for residential, commercial, and industrial businesses and Brewery. From lighting installations and data cabling to switchboard upgrades and appliance repairs, we have the expertise to handle any electrical task, big or small.
By choosing Voltage Electrical Contracting, you’re not just getting an electrician; you’re getting a reliable partner committed to your electrical needs and safety.
By following these tips, you can childproof your home’s electrical outlets and wiring and make your home a safer place for your children. Remember that electrical safety is not something to take lightly and that you should always consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns.
Contact Voltage Electrical Contracting for more information on how we can help you with your electrical needs.
