If there’s a toddler in your house, you already know—nothing is off limits. Cabinets, drawers, the dog’s water bowl, and yes, those little outlets on every wall. They’re the perfect height for curious fingers and metal toys, which makes childproofing your outlets one of the first, and smartest, home safety steps you can take.
At NOLA Electrical Services, we’ve worked with families across New Orleans to make homes safer, because a simple outlet should never be a source of worry.
The Real Risks of Unprotected Outlets
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 2,400 children are treated in hospitals each year due to outlet-related injuries. And here’s the kicker, most of those injuries happen in otherwise “child-safe” homes. Outlet shock can cause burns, nerve damage, or worse—all in seconds.
So, What Actually Works in 2024?
Let’s cut through the gimmicks and get to the solutions parents actually trust today.
1. Basic Outlet Covers, Good but Not Great
You’ve probably seen the small plastic caps that fit snugly into an outlet. They’re easy to find and cheap. But many toddlers learn to pull them out—or parents forget to put them back in. They’re a solid short-term fix, but far from foolproof.
2. Sliding Outlet Covers, Highly Recommended
These are a smart upgrade. Instead of inserting a plug into an open hole, the outlet stays covered by default. The cover slides open only when you plug something in. It’s a “set it and forget it” option—no caps to lose, no gaps in protection.
Need help installing them? Our team at NOLA Electrical Services installs childproof outlet covers with clean, code-compliant results.
3. Tamper-Resistant Outlets, TRRs
If your home was built after 2008, you might already have these. TRRs are required by modern building code and feature built-in shutters that block anything inserted unevenly—like fingers or toy screwdrivers. But older homes may still have standard outlets, and that’s where an upgrade can make a huge difference.
4. Cord and Power Strip Safety
Even with secure outlets, exposed cords are a hazard. Cord shorteners, outlet boxes, and power strip covers keep loose wires and sockets out of reach. If you’ve got appliances, lamps, or electronics in reach of tiny hands, this is a must.
When It’s Time to Call an Electrician
DIY kits work—up to a point. But when you need to install tamper-resistant outlets, add GFCI protection in wet areas, or inspect older wiring, that’s not a job for YouTube tutorials.
At NOLA Electrical Services, we make the process simple. Our licensed electricians can childproof your outlets, inspect your home’s wiring, and recommend safety upgrades that give you real peace of mind—not just plastic plug covers.
Our Childproofing Services Include
Installation of sliding and tamper-resistant outlets
GFCI outlet upgrades for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas
Outlet and panel safety inspections
Custom solutions for older homes in New Orleans
Final Thoughts, Make Safety a Priority Today
Kids grow fast—and they explore faster. Don’t wait for a close call. Whether you’re a new parent, grandparent, or just moved into a new home, now is the perfect time to put outlet safety at the top of your list.
Contact NOLA Electrical Services Today
Let’s make your home safer, one outlet at a time.
Phone: (504) 766 9210
Email: bp@nolaelectricco.com
Location: Proudly serving New Orleans and surrounding areas
Website: www.nolaelectricalservices.com