Children and babies often gravitate toward outlets which leaves parents scratching their heads with confusion. Making sure your child or infant stays away from the electrical outlets is quite serious. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, over 2,400 children are injured each year from putting items into electrical outlets.
New Electric Codes
Homes built in 2015 and onward consist of tamper-proof outlets so objects cannot get stuck in the outlet. However, it’s best to double check your home even if it has been recently built. While this is the electric code, your electrician may not have wired the home according to this new mandate. Unfortunately, some electricians might cut corners because these outlets are pricier.
Types of Outlets
Older homes have slots that are much wider, allowing for small objects to easily get inside. This can cause intense electrical shock.
Tamper-proof outlets have a plastic on the inside with spring-loaded shutters. This prevents objects from being inserted.
Decora outlets are different from regular outlets as they have a cover that snaps into place.
Child-Proofing Empty Outlets
Outlet caps are one of the most common choices and only cost a couple dollars. These caps are made of plastic and simply need to be put into the outlet. However, you need to remove the cover every time you want to use the outlet.
Sliding plate covers are a bit more expensive and can replace the covers that are already on your outlet. Objects will never get into the outlet with these covers because of the spring-loaded plastic that slides over the outlet slot. To use this, slide the cover when you want to use the plug and it will snap back into place when you’re done.
Lectralocks are the best choice, letting you have two items plugged into the wall and still being able to use the lock. These are typically offered with a lifetime warranty.
If you need residential electrical services in Rockland County, NY, call Ryan Electrical Services today at (845) 513-3344.