Electrical Hazards are Present Indoors and Out

Whether indoors or outdoors, Safe Electricity encourages families and caregivers to learn about electrical safety and to use that information to educate their youngsters about the threat of electric shock.

“At this time of year children are often restless and bored from being cooped up inside during the winter. This might inspire them to be just as curious and adventurous indoors as they are outside,” Safe Electricity Executive Director Molly Hall said. “Luckily there are some really affordable and convenient ways to make a home less hazardous.”

Safe Electricity recommends investing in the following measures to protect your loved ones:

• Tamper Resistant Outlet Receptacles- These receptables have built-in shutter systems that prevent single-pronged objects like hairpins and paper clips from being inserted. Unlike plastic outlet caps, the new receptables are permanent, automatic and reliable. They install just like standard outlets and are marginally more expensive.


• Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)- These devices are used in interior outlets of the home in rooms with high water use such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and basement. GFCIs should also be installed on exterior outlets as well. GFCIs stop the flow of electricity instantly if there is a problem and should be professionally installed. When properly used, they save lives. It’s important to know how to test and re-set them. Portable GFCIs are available for use on outdoor outlets if they do not have them.


• Professional Electrical Inspections- Hiring an electrical professional ensures home safety by making certain home electrical systems and wiring is adequate to support increased electric demands of a growing and active family. An older home may be inadequately wired for today’s electrical consumption, putting your family at risk for fire and electrical shock. Replace worn and outdated circuitry and add enough outlets for appliances and electronics.

Safe Electricity strongly recommends not trying to do this yourself.

Nonetheless, safety outdoors is always a concern. Make sure everyone in the family knows to stay away from downed power lines and wires, and tell children to report any fallen or dangling wires to an adult. Always assume that any power line is fully charged and stay far away. Call your local electric company immediately if you or your child encounters a downed power line.

"Its a good idea to include utility emergency numbers with other posted emergency phone numbers, and instruct children how to call for help in an emergency,” advises Hall.