Eversource Energy : Keep children safe from electric shock with Tamper Resistant Receptacles

Electricity is essential for our daily lives. Everywhere you look, there are electrical outlets installed at a height that draws a child's natural curiosity to explore them. Child-proofing those outlets is usually a top priority for most parents and caregivers anxious to keep small fingers away.

There's startling research showing popular plastic outlet caps may not go far enough in protecting children. A Temple University study found that 100% of all 2-4 year olds tested were able to remove one type of plastic outlet cap within 10 seconds. The results of this study indicate some outlet protectors may provide a false sense of security.

That's why Tamper Resistant Receptacles are so important. TRRs are designed with spring-loaded shutters that close off the outlet openings when they're not being used. For children trying to find out what happens when you stick something into one of those holes in the wall, the shutter will keep it from being fully inserted into the receptacle, keeping your child safe from an electrical shock. The shutters will reopen only when both springs are compressed at the same, as they would be when a plug is inserted.

TTRs don't protect against plugs that aren't pushed all the way into a wall socket or an extension cord. So be sure to look closely around your home and securely fasten any plugs that are partially sticking out with the prongs exposed.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International reports that each year approximately 2,400 children suffer severe shock and burns from sticking ordinary household objects-such as keys, pins, or paperclips-into electrical outlets.

To find out more about how to keep your children safe with tamper resistant receptacles, contact a licensed electrician or visit the Electrical Safety Foundation International's website.