![]() These covers operate on a similar principle to TRRs, using a spring-loaded shutter to keep the outlet safe. If replacing outlets is completely out of the question, there is a middle ground: sliding outlet covers. Switching a few outlets is typically an easy DIY project, although if you’re going to do a whole house’s worth you are probably going to appreciate handing the task off to a licensed electrician. Tamper resistant outlets come in all styles – including GFCI outlets – so it is highly unlikely that any of your standard outlets won’t have a suitable replacement. These outlets have significant advantages over plugs as their self-closing design means you don’t have to remember to do anything after you unplug a cord to still have a childproof outlet. TRRs are readily identifiable by the letters TR emblazoned on their fronts, and usually the shutters are easily spotted once you know what you’re looking at. Only when even pressure is applied across both sides of the outlet will the shutters move aside. TRRs work by using spring-loaded shutters which prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the outlet. ![]() Tamper resistant receptacles, or TRRs have been required by the National Electrical Code since 2008 for most household outlets. If you have a house newer than 2008 then it is likely that most or all of your outlets are of the tamper resistant variety. And, then you’ll need to remember to replace the plug afterwards – which isn’t a huge burden, but is yet another thing to remember. In order to use an outlet with a plug you’ll have to remove the plug and set it aside – where it potentially poses a choking hazard. However, no matter how well designed a plug is, the reality is that removable plugs are inconvenient and still present their own risks. Look for styles that include locking mechanisms that are designed to keep small hands at bay. The good news is that there are plenty of better designed removable outlet plugs on the market, many of which are readily available via Amazon or at your local hardware store. The average time it took them to do this was less than 10 seconds – meaning anything less than constant vigilance would be insufficient to keep your toddler safe. A study conducted in 1997 found that of 37 toddlers tested (aged 2-4) 100% could remove a common variety of clear plastic outlet plugs from an outlet. ![]() However, it has long been known that this style of outlet cap offers only minimal protection. These plug-in outlet caps are still on the market and can be a useful temporary solution for electrical safety. In the old days outlet covers were simple, and consisted of a 2 pronged plastic cap which plugged directly into the outlet, preventing unwanted objects from entering. Types of outlet covers to baby proof electrical outlets Taken all together, an uncovered outlet is a very real danger to your children. Finally, standard 3-prong power outlets seemingly have little faces – infants as young as 10 months can recognize face-like images and give objects with faces extra attention. In addition to their baby-accessible location, power outlets are frequently used by adults, and toddlers and babies love to imitate what they see their parents doing. Outlets are prime candidates for an inquisitive toddler as they are positioned right at their height along the walls that they use to support their early steps. Toddlers are at greatest risk and the most common foreign objects inserted into outlets are keys and hairpins. The injuries range in severity from minor burns to life threatening heart arrhythmias. ![]() Each year nearly 3000 children are admitted to the hospital with injuries caused by electrical outlets. The sad truth is that safety guidelines are generally the product of much suffering – and the recommendation for baby proof outlets is no exception. ![]()
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