Provided by: Kelly Smith, totsafe.com
We've all done it, you buy what you think looks like a great child safety product only to get it home and have it not fit where you wanted it to, or to have your child pull it right off. With all the electrical outlet safety devices out there, this can be a common concern among parents. The following is a guide to the outlet safety products available, to help you decide which are most appropriate for your home.
First of all, there are two main types of outlet styles that may show up in your home. Standard outlets and Decorator outlets. Most homes have standard outlets. You can easily determine this by simply looking at your outlets. Decorator Outlets have 2 screws, one at top, one at bottom. Standard outlets have one screw, in the middle of the outlet. You need to know which type of outlet your home has for many of the outlet safety products that we are going to discuss:
Outlet Covers:
We suggest outlet covers for outlets that have items plugged in all the time (i.e. a lamp), that you don't need frequent access to, or for areas where you have large adaptors (like at the computer) plugged in. Outlet covers are not easily figured out by toddlers, either, which adds to their value significantly. Outlet covers can be purchased for standard and decorator outlets. As a general rule, if the product doesn't specify which type of outlet, it is usually for standard outlets. If they are for decorator outlets, they normally list that in the description. Products made for standard outlets generally can not be used with decorator outlets and vice versa, so make certain you are clear which type they are for before you purchase.
Outlet Plates:
Outlet plates have been a long-time favorite in our home childproofing business for outlets that are frequently used (i.e. the outlet you use to plug in vacuum, then remove it). Outlet plates replace your existing outlet plate and have a 'door' that slides closed to cover the outlet as soon as an item is unplugged. These are also very difficult for little ones to figure out.
Outlet Plugs:
Outlet plugs are suggested for outlets that are normally left unused. Outlet plugs fit snugly inside outlets to prevent access. Outlet plugs can be used interchangeably with standard and decorator outlets. Children seem to figure out these types of devices sooner than outlet plates and covers.
Using this information should help you make an informed decision about proper electrical outlet safety products for your home. Of course, these products are meant to be deterrents, and are not meant to substitute for proper adult supervision.
Visit www.totsafe.com for home childproofing products and more tips.
Totsafe: Child Safety and Childproofing
Site offers home child safety products including safety gates, locks & latches, outlet & appliance safety, table cushions, and more. Includes interactive home childproofing checklist, FAQs, Ask The Childproofer, and links to toddler safety information.