As adults, we tend to forget how it feels to be a kid – free as a bird, and ready to explore every inch of the backyard, school, playground, or home. Kids love to climb trees, dig holes, and generally explore the world around them. As parents, we need to ensure they know electrical safety tips so they can be safe as they go about their adventurous activities. It’s important to sit down with your kids and go over this list:
1. Overloaded Outlets
Kids use just as many electrical devices as adults these days. Between iPods, Kindles, laptops, phones, and gaming systems, children know how to use electronics. But, they may not know how important it is to not overload outlets. Explain the importance of not putting too much stress on outlets.
Tip: Tell them to talk to an adult before plugging multiple devices into an outlet.
2. Go Fly a Kite (Or Climb a Tree) Safely
Flying kites or model airplanes is a favorite pastime. But, if a child flies a kite over a power line, it is an accident waiting to happen. The same thing goes for climbing trees near power lines. Make sure your children know they need to stay away from power lines – whether they’re flying a kite or climbing a tree.
Tip: Tell your kids to avoid climbing trees near open power lines, or flying kites or remote-controlled airplanes or helicopters near them as well.
3. Don’t Play Tug-of-War with Electrical Cords
Pulling too hard on electrical cords can cause damage to the outlet, appliance, or both. This can lead to frayed cords and the possibility of electrocution.
Tip: Tell kids to ask for help if they can’t remove a cord easily from an outlet.
4. Keep Appliances Away from the Water
Adults are well-aware that electrical devices need to be kept away from water, but children may not know this. Sit down with your children and instruct them as to how important it is to keep water away from anything that is plugged into the wall, or requires electricity to run.
5. Don’t Be a Hero
Tell your children to immediately run for help or call 911 if they come across a fire – electrical or not. Tell them how dangerous electrical fires can be, and explain that throwing water on it won’t help.
Call an Electrician to Inspect for Safety
One of the best things you can do for your children is to talk with them about electrical safety to ensure they know the facts. Additionally, having routine electrical repair and inspections from a licensed electrician is a good idea to keep your family and home safe. If you have any questions about electrical safety in your home, feel free to contact us here at Electric Doctor. We are fast, friendly, and affordable!
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