An Electrician’s Perspective on Teaching Your Kids Electrical Safety

As an electrician at Ohms & Watts Electric, I’ve seen firsthand the dangers of electricity when handled improperly. Teaching children about electrical safety is one of the most critical things parents can do, not only to keep their kids safe but also to instill a healthy respect for the power that runs through our homes.

Here’s how to approach teaching your children about electrical safety, and why it’s so important.

Start With the Basics

Children are naturally curious, and electricity is a mystery to them. Start with the basics—explaining how electricity powers the things they use every day, like the TV, tablet, or even their toys. But just as you wouldn’t let them use sharp kitchen knives without instruction, they need to understand that electricity is dangerous if not handled properly.

Explain the Danger Zones

There are specific areas in the home that are more dangerous when it comes to electricity, such as outlets, appliances, and electrical cords. Teach your children the importance of:

• Not inserting objects into outlets. Outlet covers are a great way to protect younger children, but it’s equally important to explain why outlets are dangerous. Let them know that only plugs are allowed in outlets.
• Avoiding pulling on electrical cords. Explain that tugging on cords, especially from a distance, can damage them and create a shock or fire hazard.
• Being cautious around water. Make sure your children know to never use electrical devices near water, as water and electricity don’t mix.

Hands-On Learning

Children learn better with hands-on experiences, so find ways to make electrical safety fun and engaging. One idea is to turn it into a game by identifying the electrical “danger zones” in your home. Walk them around to the outlets, cords, and appliances, asking them which ones they think could be dangerous and why.

This simple activity gives them the confidence to recognize potential risks in other environments, whether at a friend’s house or school.

Demonstrating Safe Habits

Kids are always watching, so the best way to teach them is to lead by example. Make sure you’re demonstrating safe practices like:

• Unplugging appliances when they’re not in use.
• Keeping liquids away from electronics.
• Using the correct bulbs and properly rated extension cords. When they see you respecting electricity, they’ll be more likely to do the same.

Teach About Emergency Situations

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Teach your children what to do in the event of an electrical emergency:

• If an appliance sparks or smokes, don’t touch it! Make sure they know to call an adult immediately.
• In case of a fire, get out and call 911. Children should understand that their safety comes first. They should never try to handle an electrical fire on their own.
• If someone is electrocuted, do not touch them! Teach your children to always seek help from an adult or call for emergency services instead of trying to rescue someone themselves.

Use Technology to Help

For older children, show them how to use technology to be safe. Modern outlets, surge protectors, and even appliances have built-in safety features. Explain how circuit breakers work, and introduce them to smart plugs or surge protectors that automatically cut off power during a problem. Not only does this protect the home, but it also gives your child peace of mind knowing there are safety measures in place.

Building a Lifelong Respect

Electrical safety isn’t just a one-time lesson; it’s a series of ongoing conversations and observations. By starting early and involving your children in safe electrical practices, you’re building a lifelong respect for electricity.

At Ohms & Watts Electric, we believe that teaching children about electricity can prevent accidents and keep families safe. By helping your children understand the potential hazards and showing them how to stay safe, you can reduce the risk of injury and protect your home for years to come.

Remember, it’s never too early to start teaching your children about electrical safety. Empowering them with knowledge now will ensure they grow up safe and aware.