Tips To Stop Access To An Electrical Outlet

To begin, you need to determine what kind of outlet covers you have. Most residential homes have standard outlets, which contain one screw in the middle of the plate.

Products are generally designed for either standard or designer outlets and not made to be used interchangeably.

Outlet plugs (which actually can be used interchangeably on standard and decorator outlets) are recommended for outlets that are not used or used infrequently. They are generally inexpensive, plug directly into the outlet and fit snugly to prevent access.

Safety outlet covers are recommended for outlets which have items that are plugged in continuously, items for which you do not need frequent access to or outlets with large adapters plugged in. Outlet covers are made specifically for either standard or decorator style outlets.

Outlet plates are recommended for outlets which are used frequently. Outlet plates replace your existing plates and have a sliding cover which closes as soon as an item is unplugged.

Power strip covers prevent access to power strips by fully encasing the strip in a plastic cover. They generally fit strips with two to six outlets and provide room for cord storage.

Both outlet covers and plates, and power strip covers are difficult for toddlers to figure out and remove or open.

Assess your home, its outlets and how you use them to determine which type of cover best suits your needs.