Nightlights can be dangerous for kids

Parents and caregivers often turn to lamps and nightlights to help small children become accustomed to the dark.

Some lamps and nightlights today have cartoon-like designs with toy-like appearances that may make some children see them as toys.

That’s why the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) warns that such lights can pose safety hazards when not used properly.

"Portable lamps and nightlights are not toys and children should never be allowed to play with them," said ESFI Executive Director Michael G. Clendenin.

Playing with portable lamps or nightlights can cause not only property damage but injury, such as electric shock and burns, even death. ESFI offers these safety tips to help you avoid electrical accidents:

Only adults and older children should operate electrical lamps and other electrical equipment. Small children should never be allowed to operate portable lamps or nightlights. Children should not plug in or unplug portable lamps or nightlights. Instead, remind children to ask an adult for help. Parents should check to make sure the proper wattage bulb is being used in lights. Handle nightlights carefully to ensure plug blades are correctly inserted into the receptacle. Use caution when handling nightlights and avoid twisting or using pressure, which can cause breakage and expose wiring, which may cause electrical shock and burns. Consumers should make sure nightlights and lamps are certified by recognized independent testing labs such as UL, CSA, or ETL.

Teaching safe electrical principles early in life can help establish lifelong electrical safety habits and show consequences of unsafe behavior.

For these and other safety tips and resources, including the "Mr. Plug Fun Book" with educational coloring and activities for children, visit the foundation’s website at www.electrical-safety.org, or call (703) 841-3229.

Story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.