How often do you use your outdoor outlets? Probably more than you realize, especially in the summer months. Plugging in a phone charger, a radio, outdoor lighting, etc. But are your outdoor outlets safe? Outdoor outlets need to be cared for correctly, and also need the right characteristics to ensure their safe use. Here’s what you can do to make sure your outdoor outlets are not a health hazard to you and your family.

Install GFCI Outlets

Regular outlets just won’t do for outdoor use. While they deliver proper electrical power, they aren’t equipped with the proper safety guards. Instead, install GFCI outlets outdoors and in any room in your home near a water source. A GFCI, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, measures the balance of the electrical flow to the outlet. If the GFCI senses an imbalance in this electrical flow, it shuts off power to the outlet. This protects appliances from getting fried, and people from being shocked or electrocuted.

Related Read: Patio Kitchens: 5 Electrical Items You Didn’t Think of Installing

Use an Outlet Cover

Installing a cover on  your outdoor outlets is another good way to protect your family and to keep your outdoor outlets safer. These covers will help keep water from making its way into the outlet, which we all know can cause electrocution, and will also help keep debris, like dust, dirt, and dead leaves out of the outlet openings. Debris can interfere with the outlet’s ability to conduct and deliver electricity..

Call the electrical experts at Fusion Electric to install GFCI outlets on your Kansas City home’s exterior, and keep your family safer. Call us today at 913-563-7975.