6 Essential Electrical Safety Tips for Children in Australia: A Perth Electrician's Guide

Kids and Cords Don’t Mix — Here’s How to Keep Your Family Safe

Electricity powers our lives — from lighting and heating to the screens our kids love. But for all its benefits, it also carries serious risks, especially for curious young children.

As licensed Perth electricians and local Perth Hills electricians, we’ve seen firsthand the hazards children face when electrical safety isn’t taken seriously. The good news? Most risks can be avoided with a combination of education, good habits, and smart installations.

In this blog, we share six essential electrical safety tips for families across Perth and the hills — tips that will help you keep your home safe and your children protected.

Click HERE to talk to one of our electricians today!

1. Talk to Your Kids About Electricity

One of the most effective ways to promote electrical safety at home is simple — talk to your kids. Children often explore before understanding risk. That’s why early education is key.

What to teach:

  • Electricity is powerful and can hurt you

  • Power points, wires, and appliances are not toys

  • Always ask an adult before plugging anything in

Tips for parents:

  • Use age-appropriate language and visuals

  • Reinforce the message with stories or videos

  • Repeat the conversation regularly — especially when introducing new devices

As trusted Perth Hills electricians, we always encourage parents to make safety part of everyday conversation.

2. Use Power Point Covers and Tamper-Proof Devices

Power outlets are often right at eye level for toddlers, making them a tempting target for curious fingers.

What you can do:

  • Install safety plugs or outlet covers

  • Upgrade to tamper-resistant power points

  • Consider relocating low sockets if possible during renovations

Our team of Perth electricians can install modern safety sockets designed to block foreign objects and reduce risk instantly.

3. Keep Cords and Chargers Out of Reach

Cords from phones, lamps, heaters, and appliances can all pose dangers:

  • Tripping hazards

  • Chewing or pulling by pets or toddlers

  • Live exposure if cables are damaged

Safety tips:

  • Secure cords using cord organisers or cable boxes

  • Avoid trailing leads in high-traffic areas

  • Don’t leave chargers plugged in when not in use

  • Replace any frayed or damaged cords immediately

If your home has too few power points and you’re relying on power boards, ask a Perth Hills electrician to install extra outlets safely and to code.

4. Avoid DIY Repairs and Demonstrate Safe Behaviours

Children imitate what they see. If they watch you fixing exposed wires or poking around in the switchboard, they’re more likely to try it themselves.

Set a good example:

  • Never handle electrical devices with wet hands

  • Don’t touch switches or appliances with bare feet

  • Unplug appliances by the plug — not the cord

  • Always use licensed electricians for any repair or upgrade

Educating through action is one of the most powerful forms of prevention.

Click HERE to talk to one of our electricians today!

5. Secure Electrical Devices in Wet Areas

Water and electricity are a deadly mix — especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.

What to look out for:

  • Power points too close to sinks or baths

  • Extension cords running into wet areas

  • Hair dryers or toasters left plugged in near water

Solutions:

  • Install RCD safety switches for all wet areas

  • Have a Perth electrician relocate unsafe power points

  • Teach kids to keep electronics out of the bathroom

For families in older homes across the Perth Hills, we highly recommend having your RCDs tested annually and replaced every 10 years if needed.

6. Get a Professional Electrical Safety Inspection

If you’re unsure about the safety of your home’s electrical system, the best move is to have it inspected by a licensed Perth electrician.

An electrical safety inspection will:

  • Identify damaged cables, loose connections, and overloaded circuits

  • Confirm your RCDs are functioning properly

  • Highlight power points or lighting in unsafe areas

  • Recommend upgrades that improve energy safety and efficiency

We perform these inspections across the Perth Hills and greater metro area, helping families feel confident their homes are safe — especially when raising young children.

Bonus Tips: Everyday Electrical Safety Habits for Kids

  • Never put fingers or objects into power points

  • Don’t unplug things without asking an adult

  • Keep water away from cords and devices

  • Don’t climb near power lines or electrical boxes

  • If something smells like it’s burning, tell an adult immediately

Hang a reminder chart on the fridge or near the play area to reinforce these ideas regularly.

What We Offer for Family Homes

Jarrah Group electricians specialise in family-friendly solutions that improve electrical safety and function:

  • Extra power point installations to reduce power board use

  • Tamper-resistant outlet replacements

  • RCD safety switch upgrades

  • Smoke alarm testing and compliance

  • Outdoor electrical safety solutions

Whether you’re in Glen Forrest, Darlington, Mundaring or anywhere else in the Perth Hills — we’re here to help make your home safer.

Why Choose Jarrah Group?

  • Local, licensed, and fully insured

  • Same-day service for urgent work

  • Clean, respectful tradespeople who put your family first

  • Honest advice and upfront pricing

We’re proud to be the Perth Hills electricians families trust with their safety.

Final Thoughts: Safety Starts at Home

Keeping children safe around electricity isn’t just about rules — it’s about creating a safe environment, leading by example, and partnering with professionals who care.

From inspections to upgrades, Jarrah Group is ready to help you make your home safer for the ones who matter most.

Jarrah Group — Trusted Perth Electricians Keeping Families Safe in the Hills and Beyond.

Click HERE to talk to one of our electricians today!

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