Child Safety: Make Your Home Safe

Whether you’re a parent of one or a grandparent of 15, your protective paternal instincts are constantly engaged. These concerns are never more prevalent than when your kids are playing around electrical equipment.

We know how hard it is to rein in the curious, wandering toddler. Therefore, to ensure your child’s safety, please use the following tips to provide the safest home possible.

• Keep the outlets organized – Overloading an outlet can lead to shortages and potential electrocutions. Keep the cords tucked away out of sight and reach of grabbing hands to keep the curiosity contained.
• Keep electrical equipment away from water – No one wants to find out the effects of a straightener and a full sink of water. Frizzy hair will be the least of your worries. Also be sure to completely dry off your child after pool time to prevent electrical shocks while coming indoors.
• Tidy up! – Electrical equipment can become doubly dangerous if it is left out in the open. Children can trip over exposed cords and hurt themselves while playing, as well as tug on them and receive a shock. A throw rug or liner can prevent these accidents from occurring, while also maintaining that bohemian decor!
• Cap all unused outlets – Kids naturally want to touch and experience every new thing they come across, even if that means sticking a pin or finger into a vacant electrical socket. Safety caps are cheap and found at any local Wal-Mart, so don’t take any chances. Not to mention capping outlets can conserve energy by stopping cold drafts… bonus!
• Monitor their use – It’s natural for a child to want to do things by themselves. However independent they want to feel, it’s always good to keep an eye on their movements, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Patiently assist with tasks and communicate the dangers of using electricity so that they can grow into safety-conscious adults, refraining from the temptation of the “fire” fly swatter.

For more tips to keep your children safe in your home, view our guide to energy safety for kids!

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