Electrical Shock, Prevention of
- Cover all electrical outlets that are not in use with
plastic safety caps.
- Unplug appliances with heating elements, such as hair
dryers, curling irons, electric shavers, coffeepots, and
toasters, when they are not being used.
- Keep electrical cords away from toddlers who might chew on
them. (Note: This accident could burn off part of the
lip or the end of the tongue.)
- Teach your child not to turn on lights or electrical
appliances when he or she is standing on a wet floor or
wet ground.
- Teach your child never to touch an electrical appliance,
such as a hair dryer, telephone, or radio, while he or she
is in the bathtub. (Note: This mistake can result in
immediate electrocution if the appliance is plugged into
the socket, even if the switch is turned off.)
- Teach your child to avoid open water (such as swimming
pools, lakes, and streams), tall trees, high ground, or
metal objects (such as a shovel) during thunderstorms.
Cars and houses are safe.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.