Plug socket protectors are often branded as a vital safety tool for parents, especially those with young children, as they aim to protect them from the dangers of electric shocks, but experts have revealed that the supposed safety measure actually does the opposite. In a video by consumer group Which? it explained how the socket guards increase the risk of electric shocks, and it has all to do with it disrupting the mechanism inside UK plug sockets.
British 13-amp plug sockets are designed to be safe. They feature plastic shutters that are closed when the socket is empty, creating a barrier or block between the electrical current and any baby fingers that might try and fiddle their way in. When a plug is inserted, the earth pin moves the barrier, and whatever device is plugged in gets electricity. The problem with plug protectors is that they are the “exact same size and shape” as a normal plug and, therefore can also open the shutters, removing the safety barrier.
When the protector is inserted it leaves the circuit open, which results in an increased risk of electric shocks. Not only that, if it happens to be inserted upside down or is snapped in half access to the electric current becomes even easier.
Therefore, socket protectors not only increase the risk of electrical shocks or the start of an electrical fire, but they can also melt and damage the sock itself.
According to the warning video by Which? “The NHS, Department of Health and Social Care, Barnardos and British Electrotechnical and Allied Manufacturers’ Association advise people not to use them.”
But the question remains: How do you protect children from electrical plug sockets?
The best way to baby-proof them is to basically leave them alone.
They already have in-built safety features that protects children. Once they are old enough to understand, children should be taught the importance of keeping their fingers away from the sockets
However, until that time comes, other things that would be beneficial to do is to keep them out of reach by positioning large pieces of furniture in front of them, turn off any plugs that aren’t in use, make sure all cords and wires are neatly packed away and avoid overloading your sockets.
