How to Install an Electrical Outlet Plate Cover in Childproofing

Now that your baby has learned how to crawl or walk, it's time to childproof your house to keep him safe from all the little dangers that surround him. Covering your electrical outlets should be one of the first steps you take in childproofing, since outlets are all over the house and at the perfect height for little hands to get curious. Instead of using plug-in protectors that require you to remove to use an appliance and put back when you're done, it is simpler to install an electrical outlet plate cover that automatically blocks the outlet when you're done using it.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Replacement outlet cover

Instructions

    • 1

      Select an electrical outlet cover that meets your needs in color, shape and style. It should have one or two holes for screws to mount it to the wall. Select a plate cover that has a sliding mechanism for maximum safety, which covers the outlets automatically when they are not in use.

    • 2

      To prevent accidental shock, turn the switch off that powers the outlet or flip the circuit breaker to cut off the electricity until the job is done.

    • 3

      Unscrew the old outlet cover, and remove it -- if the outlet already has a cover.

    • 4

      Line up the openings on the new cover with the outlets on the wall and screw into the wall to secure. Don't over tighten the screws, since this can cause the cover to crack.

    • 5

      Turn the power back on and test your newly childproofed outlets.

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