Childproofing Your Home for the Holidays: Safe Electrical Tips

The holidays are a time for family, celebrations, and full houses—often with young children visiting who don’t normally live in your home. Extra decorations, extension cords, and electronics can create hidden electrical hazards if your home isn’t properly prepared.



At Ebert Electric, we help New London homeowners keep their homes safe year-round. During the holidays, a few proactive electrical precautions can go a long way toward preventing accidents and giving everyone peace of mind.

Why Electrical Safety Matters More During the Holidays

Holiday activities naturally increase electrical use:

• Decorative lighting indoors and out
• Temporary extension cords and power strips
• Extra appliances for cooking and entertaining
• More foot traffic and curious little hands

These changes can turn everyday electrical systems into safety risks if they aren’t properly managed.

Use Tamper-Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant (TR) outlets are one of the simplest and most effective childproofing upgrades.

They:

• Prevent children from inserting objects into outlets
• Reduce the risk of shocks and burns
• Look identical to standard outlets

If your home doesn’t already have TR outlets—especially in living areas, bedrooms, and guest spaces—this upgrade is worth considering.

Secure Cords and Power Strips

Loose cords are both a trip hazard and an electrical risk.

Holiday safety tips:

• Keep cords out of walkways and off the floor when possible
• Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture
• Use cord covers or clips to secure them
• Keep power strips out of reach of children

Never overload power strips or outlets—especially when running holiday lights.

Choose Safe Holiday Lighting

Not all decorative lighting is created equal.

For safer use:

• Use UL-listed lights designed for indoor use
• Inspect cords for fraying or damage
• Avoid older lights that lack modern safety features
• Turn lights off when unattended or overnight

LED lights are a safer, energy-efficient option that generate less heat.

Cover Unused Outlets

In homes with young visitors, unused outlets should be covered.

Options include:

• Plastic safety caps
• Sliding outlet covers
• Furniture placement that blocks access

This is especially important in guest rooms, family rooms, and lower-level spaces where children tend to play.

Be Cautious With Extension Cords

Extension cords are meant for temporary use only.

Safety reminders:

• Use cords rated for the intended load
• Never daisy-chain multiple cords
• Replace damaged or worn cords immediately
• Remove cords once the holidays are over

Permanent electrical needs should be addressed with proper outlets—not long-term extension cord use.

Consider a Holiday Electrical Safety Check

If your home’s electrical system hasn’t been evaluated in years, the holidays are a good reminder.

A professional electrical inspection can:

• Identify outdated or overloaded circuits
• Ensure outlets and switches are safe
• Reduce fire and shock risks
• Support safe upgrades for families and guests

Peace of Mind for a Busy Season

Childproofing doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be intentional. A few simple electrical precautions can help ensure your home is as safe as it is welcoming this holiday season.

Ebert Electric proudly serves New London and surrounding Wisconsin communities with professional electrical services focused on safety, reliability, and long-term protection. When it comes to protecting your home and your guests, preparation matters.