Home Selling Team
Sue Esposito, Home Selling TeamPhone: (860) 428-3201
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A quick guide to outlet safety covers

by Sue Esposito 12/04/2024

Whether you're childproofing your home or interested in improving general safety around the house, you might want to consider outlet safety covers. Electrical outlets are a significant cause of injury at home and can also be a fire hazard if used improperly. Luckily, there are plenty of outlet covers available to decrease the risk.

Why use outlet covers?

Electrical outlets are often at the top of the list of potential hazards for both children and pets. They can cause mild to severe electric shock or skin burns if tampered with. Securing your electric outlets will give you greater peace of mind while keeping your home and its occupants safe.

Types of electrical outlet covers

There are three main types of outlet covers: plugs, box outlet covers and sliding outlet covers. Outlet plugs are small, plastic devices you plug into the empty socket as you would any electrical device. This closes the holes and prevents curious fingers or claws from poking into them.

A box style outlet cover allows you to protect the outlet while it's in use. These covers consist of a box or shell that encases the entire outlet while allowing room for cords. These are a more permanent option, as they require attaching to the wall with screws.

Sliding covers have small, shutter-like features you can open or close as needed. When closed, it completely covers the holes, but can be opened to plug something in. This type of cover is very convenient if you plan to plug and unplug things regularly, but they do require more work to install, as they replace the existing outlet covers completely.

When deciding which type of outlet cover is best, consider how frequently you'll be using the outlet in question. For long-term security, a box outlet cover might be the best choice. However, both plug protectors and sliding protectors offer more flexibility. Keep all these options in mind to make the best safety decisions for your home.

About the Author
Author

Sue Esposito

There are many qualities and skills that go into being an excellent real estate professional - integrity, in-depth community and market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills and a high-quality professional network, all of which are hallmarks of how I work.

  • Full Time Real Estate Professional with an excellent work ethic
  • 32 years of real estate experience working with a diverse client base of both buyers and sellers
  • Certified Real Estate Negotiation Expert
  • Passionate about the Real Estate profession and advancing education and skills
  • Proficient with technological advances in marketing strategies
  • Employs a Full Time Licensed Real Estate Listing and Transaction Manager
  • My Designations include Broker, ABR, CNE, CRS, GRI, MRP, SFR, and SRS. 
  • Licensed in CT