Survey uncovers electrical hazards

MOST new parents are failing to do enough to protect children from electrical accidents, including relying too much on socket covers.

While 74 per cent believe their home is safe, 62 per cent rely on socket covers and just 38 per cent have a residual current device (RCD) to prevent fatal electric shocks and minimise fire, a study for the Electrical Safety Council (ESC) found.

Although more parents use socket covers than baby monitors or stair barriers, sockets are generally safe and covers will not prevent a shock if the installation is not safe, the ESC said.