Keeping Kids Safe Around Electricity

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A child’s natural curiosity and sense of adventure can fuel learning, but it can also lead to dangerous situations and injuries when it comes to electricity. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, 2,400 children in the U.S. are treated for injuries caused by electrical outlets each year and nearly a third of parents with young children do not have their outlets childproofed.

Southern California Edison has some tips on how to keep kids safe around electricity:

Talk to your kids in a way that is simple and easy to understand. In your home, electricity runs the lights, television, toaster and more. Electricity is a form of energy that travels through wires from power plants all the way into your home. Electricity can also flow through bodies, water and other materials that can cause a shock or fire hazard.
Go over house rules to help kids stay safe around electricity.

Never put fingers or objects in electrical outlets and make sure to childproof them.
Keep and use electrical appliances away from water.
Dry your hands thoroughly before reaching for anything powered by electricity.
Grasp the plug, not the cord, to remove a power cord from an outlet.
Play far away from trees that are touching or near power lines.
Always ask an adult when you need to use something that needs electricity.

Use interactive videos, games and activities to teach electrical safety. SCE offers videos and games that engage kids while they learn about electrical safety. Your local library or bookstores are also great resources for children’s books that explain and illustrate how electricity works. You can also use this home inspection activity with your child to review how to use electricity safely in your home.

For more tips and resources on electrical safety for kids of all ages, parents and teachers, visit: sce.e-smartonline.net.