Top 10 Electrical Hazards Hiding in Plain Sight—And How to Childproof Them

When it comes to protecting your family, most parents and pet owners think of baby gates and locked cabinets—but many forget about electrical hazards. From the living room to the backyard, hidden dangers can turn everyday appliances into potential threats for children and curious pets.

As licensed electricians, we’ve seen how small changes can prevent big accidents. Here are the top 10 electrical hazards in most homes—and how you can childproof or pet-proof them today.

1. Uncovered Electrical Outlets

The Risk: Kids love poking things where they don’t belong. Pets, especially puppies, may lick or paw at low outlets.

Solution: Install tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) or use snap-in outlet covers. TRRs are a permanent, code-compliant solution that blocks access unless both prongs are inserted simultaneously.

2. Loose or Damaged Cords

The Risk: Worn or frayed cords can expose live wires. Pets often chew on cords, while kids might tug them, causing appliances to fall.

Solution: Use cord organizers or cable covers, and replace any damaged cords immediately. Consider chew-proof braided cables or cord concealers that attach to walls or furniture.

3. Overloaded Power Strips

The Risk: Plugging too many devices into a single strip can cause overheating and fires. Curious hands and paws may also unplug or tamper with these devices.

Solution: Use surge-protected power strips and avoid daisy-chaining multiple strips. Keep them off the floor and out of reach—or upgrade to smart outlets with load control features.

4. Appliances Left Plugged In

The Risk: Kids may press buttons or turn dials on plugged-in appliances like toasters, hair dryers, or space heaters.

Solution: Unplug appliances when not in use, or install smart plugs that allow you to cut power remotely. Use childproof outlet covers on high-risk zones like bathrooms and kitchens.

5. Low-Hanging or Exposed Cords

The Risk: Cords that dangle from counters, TVs, or mounted lights are tugging hazards that can lead to falls or electric shock.

Solution: Use adhesive cord clips to anchor cords against surfaces, and keep them out of reach. Wall-mounting TVs and hiding cables in a cord raceway is both safe and stylish.

6. Extension Cords

The Risk: These are temporary fixes, not permanent solutions. They’re easily tripped over, chewed on, or overloaded.

Solution: Avoid using extension cords for long-term setups. If you need more outlets, have a licensed electrician install additional ones where needed.

7. Lamps and Nightlights

The Risk: These can be knocked over or grabbed. Some older nightlights overheat or break easily, creating burn or shock risks.

Solution: Use LED nightlights that stay cool to the touch. Opt for wall-mounted lights or motion-activated lights that don’t need to be touched at all.

8. Outdoor Outlets and Lighting

The Risk: Water and electricity don’t mix, and kids or pets playing outside may tamper with exposed outlets or lighting.

Solution: Ensure all outdoor outlets have weatherproof covers and are GFCI-protected. Have your outdoor electrical systems inspected annually for safety.

9. Old or Unlabeled Electrical Panels

The Risk: In an emergency, not knowing which breaker controls what could delay shutting off power.

Solution: Keep your panel clearly labeled, and consider upgrading older panels to modern systems with circuit protection. Teach older children how to shut off power in case of an emergency—with supervision.

10. DIY Electrical Work

The Risk: Quick fixes from non-professionals often violate code, overload circuits, or leave open wires exposed—putting your whole family at risk.

Solution: Always hire a licensed electrician for inspections, upgrades, or repairs. It's worth the peace of mind knowing the job is done right.

🛠️ Let Us Help Make Your Home Safer

If you’re concerned about electrical safety in your home—especially with children or pets around—schedule a professional safety inspection with us. We’ll help identify hidden hazards and offer smart, family-friendly solutions.

Contact us today to book your inspection or get a free safety checklist tailored to your home.