Raising young children comes with enough daily challenges, and household safety is always a top priority. In Brisbane and surrounding suburbs such as Logan, Bayside, Carindale, Mount Gravatt, Wynnum, Capalaba, and Redlands, electrical safety is an important yet often overlooked aspect of childproofing the home.
Children are naturally curious, and everyday electrical fixtures — power points, cords, appliances, and outdoor lighting — can pose serious risks if not properly managed.
The good news is that with a few practical steps and professional checks, families can significantly reduce electrical hazards in the home.
Why Electrical Safety Matters More for Families
Young children explore their environment by touching, pulling, and inserting objects. Electrical accidents can result in severe injuries, burns, or worse. Homes with older wiring or outdated fittings may increase these risks.
Brisbane’s climate also means homes often use fans, air conditioning, pool equipment, and outdoor lighting year-round, creating more exposure to electrical systems.
1. Install Safety Switches on All Circuits
Safety switches (RCDs) are essential in homes with children. They shut off power within milliseconds when a fault is detected, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock.
Queensland law requires safety switches, but some older homes may have incomplete coverage.
An electrician can check whether all circuits are protected and upgrade systems where needed.
2. Childproof Power Points and Cords
Power points are often at eye level for toddlers.
Simple measures include:
- Using approved power point safety covers
- Keeping unused outlets covered
- Securing loose cords away from reach
- Avoiding overloaded power boards
If your home lacks enough outlets, installing additional power points is safer than relying on extension leads.
3. Replace Damaged or Old Electrical Fittings
Loose switches, cracked power points, or exposed wiring should never be ignored — especially in family homes.
Warning signs include:
- Warm or discoloured outlets
- Flickering lights
- Buzzing sounds
- Frequent tripping
These issues should be checked by a licensed electrician before they escalate.
4. Keep Cords and Appliances Out of Reach
Children can pull appliances down or chew on cords.
Best practices include:
- Keeping kettles, toasters, and appliances away from edges
- Using short cords where possible
- Avoiding cords hanging from benches
- Securing TVs and lamps
In kitchens and laundry areas, extra care should be taken due to water exposure.
5. Ensure Smoke Alarms Are Installed and Working
Smoke alarms play a critical role in protecting families, especially at night.
Queensland regulations require photoelectric smoke alarms and, by 1 January 2027, interconnected alarms throughout all homes.
Smoke alarms should be installed:
- In every bedroom
- In hallways near bedrooms
- On every storey of the home
More information on compliant installations can be found here:
6. Pay Extra Attention to Outdoor Areas
Backyards, patios, and pools are popular play areas for children but can pose additional risks.
Check that:
- Outdoor power points are weatherproof
- Extension leads are not used outdoors long-term
- Pool and garden lighting is professionally installed
- No exposed wiring is present
This is especially important in Bayside and Redlands suburbs, where coastal moisture can affect fittings.
7. Schedule Regular Electrical Safety Inspections
Electrical systems can degrade without obvious signs. A professional inspection helps identify risks before they become dangerous.
Inspections are particularly important if:
- Your home is older than 20 years
- You’ve recently renovated
- You’re adding new appliances or air conditioning
You can learn more about what inspections involve here:
Teaching Children Electrical Awareness
As children grow, teaching basic electrical safety — such as not touching outlets or cords — adds another layer of protection. While supervision is key, education helps children understand boundaries.
Final Thoughts
Electrical safety is a crucial part of creating a secure home environment for families with young children. With the right precautions, regular inspections, and safe electrical setups, Brisbane families can enjoy peace of mind knowing their homes are well protected.
Contact Jo Electrical Works
For electrical safety inspections and child-friendly electrical solutions across Brisbane, Logan, Bayside, and surrounding suburbs:
📞 Call us: 0405 305 068
📧 Email: info@joelectricalworks.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.joelectricalworks.com.au