Tips to Baby Proof Your Homes Electric

Tips to Baby Proof Your Homes Electric

September 12, 2021

Electricity is an incredibly volatile element that is somewhat controlled with professional electrical systems, but the threat is not eliminated. Household electricity can cause electrocutions and even fatalities if taken lightly. This risk is even more serious when it comes to babies or toddlers in the house. If you have little ones or are expecting, then it is wise to baby-proof your home’s electric. Your friends here at Mr. Electric of Dallas have a few tips to make things safer, and we are always ready to take your call for a consultation or urgent dispatch. Our live representatives and licensed electricians in Farmers Branch are on standby now.

Cover the Outlets

Babies and toddlers are inspiringly curious, but that curiosity can be dangerous. The last thing you want is a baby to experiment with shoving things into the electrical outlets. Modern outlets should have AFCI or GFCI technology, which are designed to prevent sudden power draws, but even this cannot protect tender babies. So, it is important to stop shocks altogether. Get in the habit of keeping outlets covered when they are not in use. If you use an outlet temporarily, then unplug the device after use and cover the outlet immediately.

Avoid Power Strips and Long Cords

In this age of technology, we have so many electronic devices, accessories, and appliances. Sometimes, the outlets are not enough to meet demands and homeowners opt for power strips, but these can be dangerous as babies are tempted to play with the long cords and even play with the outlets in the power strips. If you must use power strips, then keep them elevated and out of the babies’ reach. We also advice you cover these outlets just as you should cover wall outlets.

A better solution is to install extra outlets. The electricians at Mr. Electric of Dallas can install advanced outlets with safety features and even USB outlets to meet the demands of modern devices.

Test GFCIs Once a Month

A ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is designed to sense fluctuations in the electrical current and shut down to avoid sudden surges in power. This sort of acts like a circuit breaker but on the individual outlet level. These GFCI include a button to test the unit. Test your GFCIs once a month and replace any GFCI that do not trip when tested.

Some Other Quick Tips

It does not hurt to be careful, and it is better to be safe than sorry. Here are some other tips to protect against electrical disaster:

  • Keep electronics and electrical accessories away from bathtubs and sinks, especially hair dryers and hair straighteners or curlers.
  • Make sure each lightbulb’s wattage matches the fixture’s.
  • Unplug warm or hot cords immediately.
  • Never carry appliances by their cord and unplug appliances before cleaning them.

Have An Electrician Child-Proof Your Home’s Electrical

If you want best results, then leave the childproofing to the professionals. Call Mr. Electric of Dallas to have a dedicated electrician come by and assess your electrical system. We are happy to make a plan, give you a price estimate, and get started on the work as soon as possible.