Ted Stumpf
Ted Stumpf, Windermere Napa Valley PropertiesPhone: (707) 246-9825
Email: [email protected]

Your guide to outlet safety covers

by Ted Stumpf 01/15/2023

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

Ted Stumpf

Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.

Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.  

The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!