Containing Kids and Curious Mindsets: A Guide to Tamper Resistant Outlets

Difference Between Tamper Resistant Outlets

When it comes to keeping our homes safe and secure, we often think about locking our doors, installing security systems, and protecting our possessions. But one aspect of home safety that is often overlooked is the importance of tamper resistant outlets. Where it seems like young children are born with iPads in their hands and an innate ability to explore, it is crucial that we take the necessary measures to protect them from potentially dangerous electrical outlets. As a concerned homeowner in East Providence, Rhode Island, it is important to understand the difference between tamper resistant outlets and standard outlets, and how they can benefit your family.

B&K Electric, a family-owned and operated electrical business based in Warwick, RI, has been proudly serving the residents of Cranston, Warwick, and all of Rhode Island for over seventeen years. We specialize in electrical repair, panel maintenance, and installation, making us your go-to electrician for all your home or business needs in the Warwick and greater Providence area. As a licensed and experienced electrician, we are passionate about educating our clients on the best ways to keep their homes safe and secure with the latest technology, including tamper resistant outlets.

Before diving into the specifics of tamper resistant outlets, it is essential to understand the difference between them and standard outlets. Standard outlets, also known as traditional or conventional outlets, have two vertical slots and one round hole for the grounding prong. These outlets are typically found in most homes and have been the standard since the early 20th century. On the other hand, tamper resistant outlets, also known as child proof outlets, feature a spring-loaded shutter mechanism that prevents foreign objects, such as paperclips or keys, from being inserted inside the outlet.

While both standard and tamper resistant outlets function the same way in providing electricity to our appliances and devices, the difference lies in the additional safety mechanism of the tamper resistant outlets. With traditional outlets, there is a risk of small objects being inserted into the slots, posing a severe risk of electrical shock or burn injuries. Children, in particular, are curious and often explore their environment by putting objects into openings such as outlets. In fact, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 2,400 children suffer from electrical shock and burns each year as a result of tampering with outlets.

So how exactly do tamper resistant outlets work? The spring-loaded shutter mechanism in the outlet prevents small objects from being inserted by only allowing the metal prongs of plugs to open it. This means that without both prongs making contact with the outlet at the same time, the shutters will not open, making it impossible for children to stick objects into the outlet. This additional level of protection gives parents peace of mind, knowing that their curious little ones will not be able to tamper with outlets while playing or exploring.

Aside from protecting our children, tamper resistant outlets offer several other benefits that make them an excellent investment for any household. For one, these outlets can save you money on your energy bill. Traditional outlets have been known to lose their grip over time, resulting in loose connections and an increase in energy consumption. Tamper resistant outlets, however, have more robust connections and better gripping capabilities, leading to energy savings in the long run.

Moreover, tamper resistant outlets are also fire-resistant. As they have a tight seal around the plugs, they reduce the risk of electrical arcing, which is one of the primary causes of electrical fires. With tamper resistant outlets, you can rest assured that you are minimizing the risk of a house fire.

When it comes to installation, it is essential to hire a licensed electrician, like B&K Electric, to ensure the tamper resistant outlets are correctly installed. While tamper resistant outlets can be installed in any room of your home, there are certain areas where they are highly recommended. These include any room where your child spends a lot of time, such as their bedroom, playroom, or nursery. Additionally, outlets near the kitchen, where there are often small appliances like toasters and blenders, should also be tamper resistant.

In today’s world, it is easy to overlook the safety of our homes, especially when it comes to outlets. But as responsible homeowners, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect our loved ones from potential electrical hazards. By investing in tamper resistant outlets, you are not only creating a safer environment for your family, but you are also saving money and reducing the risk of fires. As a trusted electrician in the Rhode Island area, we highly recommend considering tamper resistant outlets as a vital safety measure for any household.

Topics:

Tamper resistant outlets,

child safety,

electrical hazards