Because of their natural curiosity, children are the group most vulnerable to electrical hazards. Trying to push their little fingers into sockets, pulling on cables or playing with electrical devices can lead to serious accidents. With simple measures parents can take, these risks can be greatly reduced.
The first and most basic measure is to use socket protector covers. Covers with a child-lock feature should be fitted to all unused sockets. In modern buildings shuttered sockets come as standard, but in older buildings this update must be done by hand. Rotating socket covers should be of a type children cannot easily remove.
Cable management is critically important in homes with children. Cables trailing on the floor or hanging at reachable height create both a tripping and a pulling risk. Hide all cables out of children's reach with cable trunking or in-wall cable routes.
Residual-current device protection must be present in children's rooms and play areas. A thirty-milliampere RCD protects your child by cutting the circuit within milliseconds in case of a leak. On wet floors such as in the bathroom and kitchen this protection is vital.
The cables and plugs of electrical appliances should be checked regularly. Frayed cable insulation or loose plugs must be repaired or replaced immediately. Children should be taught about electrical hazards in a way that suits their age.
Be extra careful in the kitchen and bathroom, where water and electricity are in the same place. Unplug devices such as hair dryers and toasters when you are not using them. Never use an extension cable near water.
Electric blankets and heaters should not be used in children's rooms if possible. If they are used, choose models with thermostat protection and automatic switch-off. For your child's safety, have your home's electrical installation checked once a year.
