Electricity can often appear much like magic to children. By flipping a switch or plugging an electrical cord into an outlet, appliances come alive and lights illuminate rooms. There are electrical hazards in the home that children need to be aware of—including electrical outlets. Access Energy Cooperative and Safe Electricity advise that you can help keep kids safe by making sure your outlets are tamper resistant.

Tamper resistant outlets or tamper resistant receptacles (TROs or TRRs) have shutters that stay closed unless a plug with two prongs is inserted into the outlet. Both springs on the shutters must be compressed at the same time to allow an object to gain access. If a child attempts to stick an object in the outlet, the shutter prevents the object from entering and no contact with electricity is made.

Since 2008, the National Electrical Code requires all new and renovated dwellings to be equipped with TROs. Therefore, if your home was built before 2008, there is a good chance your outlets may not be tamper resistant.