Keeping kids away from electrical outlets, cords, and appliances. Babies love poking things into outlets, and toddlers chew on cords. Outlet covers, cord concealers, and GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms are essential.
Related Terms
A plastic cap or plate that prevents children from inserting objects into electrical outlets. Simple plug-in caps are cheap but can become choking hazards if a toddler pulls them out. Sliding plate covers that automatically close when not in use are a better bet.
A channel or raceway that covers electrical cords running along walls or floors. It prevents babies from chewing on cords and removes tripping hazards. Paintable versions blend in with your walls. Also keeps curious kids from pulling on cords and yanking appliances down.
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet shuts off power when it detects an imbalance in electrical current, which can happen when water contacts an appliance. Required by code in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas. Those little "test" and "reset" buttons mean it's a GFCI.
A box or enclosure that covers a power strip and its plugged-in cords, preventing children from pulling out plugs or touching the outlets. Some designs have cable entry points so you can still use the strip while keeping it childproof.