There are preparations every parent must take before bringing home a new baby, and child-proofing the electrical outlets is one of the most critical. Infants are naturally curious, which is why you must protect them from potential hazards. Below, the licensed electricians at Hylton's Electric Connection in Bluefield, WV, are here to discuss a few helpful tips for safeguarding the outlets.

3 Baby-Proofing Tips for Electrical Outlets

Outlet Caps

Outlet caps are plastic pieces that plug directly into an electrical socket. Caps are even difficult for adults to remove, which is why they are best suited for outlets you rarely use. They also come in a variety of styles and colors to discreetly match the surroundings.

Plate Covers

Electrical plate covers are spring-loaded, so the sliding plate must be pushed to the side before the sockets can be accessed. After removing the plug from the outlet, the plate slides back into place. This will fully protect your child from being able to insert anything into the socket. You also won’t have to constantly remove the plastic caps to plug in an appliance.

Electrical & Extension Cords

Children love to pull on electrical cords, which can cause serious injury when pulled by the cord rather than the plug. Avoid using extension cords in the home when you have a baby. You can also purchase a power strip cover that conceals the entire strip to prevent access to the sockets.

While child-proofing the home, hire an electrician early in the pregnancy to inspect your home’s wiring for any safety risks. For the premier electricians in Bluefield, WV, turn to the team at Hylton's Electric Connection. For over 25 years, they have provided local residential and commercial clients with quality services, including wiring repair and security system installation. Call (304) 325-3101 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their offerings.