In some cases the results of those actions can be very serious, painful, or even fatal when children are allowed to push small, soft, wet, and fragile fingers into electrical outlets. To prevent your child from getting an electrical shock the Leviton Institute suggests covering exposed electrical outlets with a protective device. An adapter will allow you to use the outlet and prevent a child from poking fingers, pencils, or other objects into the openings. Small children are naturally curious and they simply don't understand the power of electricity. A favorite target of babies and toddlers are power cords they place in their mouth and chew on the plug.
Children also love to tug on loose electrical cords.
As a result, they can knock over a lamp, an appliance, or telephone injuring themselves in the process. To prevent these types of accidents, the Leviton Institute suggests all cords be placed out of the reach of small hands and cord shorteners should not be used to eliminate any loose wires. Make sure there's a light bulb in every lamp socket. When portable fans, clothes irons, and space heaters, are not in use, be sure to unplug them and put them away. If your fuse boxes are within reach of a small child, padlock them shut and place the key in a safe place accessible only to adults.