Electricity is a powerful part of everyday life and is important for the health and well-being of families today. It help us keep our homes clean, food fresh, rooms well lit and lives more comfortable. However, that power can be dangerous if not properly understood and respected. Children, in particular, can be unaware of the risk. With forethought, parents can protect their children by using safeguards within the home and educating them about the benefits and dangers of electricity.
Your Child's Age
As soon as your baby begins crawling, protect against accidental contact with electrical outlets and cords. Babies love to chew, especially when teething, and they might choose a handy electrical cord, which would be disastrous. As your child becomes a toddler and has some concept of right and wrong, you can begin to educate and reinforce the need for caution. Teach your child that outlets, cords and lamps are "no touch" items.
Older children should be well informed about the potential for harm from electricity, especially as they begin to use electric appliances, such as televisions, computers, video games and DVD players. They need to know how to protect themselves from shock, fire and other risks from electricity.
Effects
Electric shock is the most common injury. When an electric source is directly touched, the current will pass through to the body. This causes a shock that can range from mild discomfort to severe burns and even death. If your child comes in contact with electricity, don't panic. First, turn off the power so you don't also get shocked. Then provide first aid to your child accordingly. If the injury is severe, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
Damage to electrical components and fire can also occur from overloaded outlets, accidentally spilled liquids or short circuits in frayed electrical wires. Ensure that care is taken around outlets and connections, and that electrical items are kept in good repair to help reduce the risk to your family and home.
Outlets, Cords and Lights
Safety covers that prevent your child from being shocked by electrical outlets are inexpensive and easy to use. Make sure every outlet in your home is covered.
As you educate your child about electricity, ensure that he understands it is never safe to stick anything in an electrical outlet. Rules about not playing with electrical outlets, cords, lamps and seasonal lights should also be taught and strictly enforced. This can mean the difference between safety and injury for your child.
Children who are old enough to use electrical items need to understand that outlets, including power strips, should never be overloaded. Electrical cords should not be allowed to trail across the floor. Also, your children should know to get adult help with changing light bulbs.
Appliances
Teach your child to never stick anything into an electrical appliance, such as using a fork to retrieve something from a toaster. Electric appliances can also pose risks other than a shock. Irons, hair dryers and curling irons can cause significant burns. Microwaves, washing machines and dryers can also be dangerous. Children should be instructed to never use these items without help from an adult. You should also teach your child to shut off electrical items when not in use.
Water
Water and electricity together can also pose serious risks. Your child should know not to handle electrical items with wet hands. Drinks need to be kept away from anything electrical. They should also know to never take plugged-in electrical items into the bathroom or near the kitchen sink.
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