Some childproofing measures, such as protecting windows or electrical outlets, apply to the entire house. Here we’ll look at these, beginning with electrical outlets since these pose a serious hazard to small children. Then, please see the listing at top right for information on childproofing stairs, doors, and windows.

家Electrical Devices

Since 1984, the Uniform Building Code has required ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in bathrooms; more recently, they’ve been required for kitchens and outdoor circuits, too. The reasoning is that these are the likeliest areas, because of their proximity to water, where serious electrical shock could occur.

GFCI Electrical Receptacle©Don Vandervort, HomeTips

GFCI插座sense a leak in the current and break the circuit almost instantaneously, thus preventing electrical shock. If wired correctly in line, one unit can serve several receptacles. Or, you can replace ordinary circuit breakers that serve your kitchen, bath, and outdoor receptacles with GFCI breakers. See more aboutGFCI插座.

Electrical Cords

整个房屋中的所有电线都必须首先保持良好的维修,以避免发火的可能性。磨损,覆盖的绳索特别危险,因此请用最新的坚固塑料线代替它们。

电线必须保持轻松访问。A baby or toddler can receive severe electrical burns and permanent scars from chewing on one or may topple a heavy appliance by tugging on one.

通过重新安排家具,从可能的情况下从视线中消除延伸线。如果您必须使用扩展线,请在不使用时拔下插头。在实用的地方,带有钉书钉或透明掩蔽胶带的固定电线到踢脚线。如果两个或多个绳索延伸到同一位置,请用绳索套覆盖它们。

Electrical Outlets

There are three types of safety devices for electrical outlets: outlet caps, offset cover plates, and protective covers. Whichever type you choose, be sure to protect all outlets your child can reach.

Although young children can remove outlet caps, caps do discourage them from inserting objects into unused outlets. Spring-loaded offset cover plates block direct access to outlets. To insert a plug, twist 1/4 turn clockwise until the holes in the plate and the outlet line up. Protective covers prevent accidental shocks. Covers flip out of the way for insertion or removal of a plug.

防护电气容器
Plastic receptacle protectors keep kids away from electrical hazards.

TIP: Manufacturers of GFCIs recommend checking the devices monthly by triggering the test button.

MORE ABOUT CHILDPROOFING:

Baby-proofing a Baby or Toddler Room
购买安全的婴儿和幼儿玩具
防儿童甲板和门廊
防儿童家庭办公室或活动区域
Childproofing Room-by-Room
防儿童楼梯
Child-Safe Fences & Gates
Child Safety in Garage & Shop
How to Buy a Safe Baby Crib
How to Buy Safe Baby Strollers, Carriers & Walkers

Get a Pre-Screened Local Home Childproofing Pro

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About Don Vandervort
An avid builder and remodeler, Don Vandervort has developed his expertise for more than 30 years, as Building Editor for Sunset Books, Senior Editor at Home Magazine, author of more than 30 home improvement books, and writer of countless magazine articles. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTV’s “The Fix,” and served as MSN’s home expert for several years. Don founded HomeTips in 1996.Read more about Don Vandervort