With computers, video games, and more, kids today are using electricity more than those of any previous generation. There are electrical hazards present both inside and outside of the home that they must be aware of. Make sure that your children are safe around electricity by teaching them these three important guidelines.
Don’t Overload Electrical Outlets
Kids are sometimes unaware that there are risks to plugging too many devices into one outlet. Overloading outlets can easily cause a fire. Electrical fires are particularly dangerous because they often occur inside of the walls. They also require a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires; throwing water on them will lead to electrical shock. If you need more outlet space, have a Cutler Bay electrician add another outlet or two. This will give your kids enough power for their various devices without running the risk of starting a fire.
Don’t Insert Things into Outlets
The natural curiosity of children can lead them to do some hazardous things. Playing with electrical outlets is one of them. Young kids are often inquisitive about electrical outlets, mainly about what happens if they insert something into the sockets. Needless to say, this tendency could have tragic consequences. Make it clear to your kids that electrical outlets are not to be played with. You can add an extra measure of safety by putting childproof outlet covers on every plug that is not in use.
Be Careful Around Outdoor Power Sources
Whether they’re flying kites or climbing trees, kids must learn to stay away from power lines when they’re playing out in the yard. Explain to them that power lines contain live electricity and that it can cause serious injury or death if they come in contact with it. Only let them fly kites and climb trees in areas that are nowhere near any power lines. They should also be taught never to climb utility poles or play around electrical substations near your home. If they manage to get one of their toys stuck on a power line or behind the fence of a substation, they should let you know right away. You can then call a public works electrician in Miami to retrieve the object safely.
You can’t stop kids from encountering potentially dangerous electrical components, but you can show them how to be safe around them. Teaching your kids to limit the loads placed on one outlet, not treat outlets like toys, and use extreme caution around power lines will keep them safe from a few of the most common electrical hazards.