1.   As in all other rooms, make sure electrical outlets are secured with outlet covers.

2.   Better yet, Fein said, are outlet covers with a spring-loaded sliding mechanism that covers the outlets when they are not in use.

3.   Cover floor-level electrical outlets with the sliding outlet covers.

4.   Cover the outlet in the front with a foundation planting and no one will know the difference.

5.   Shield electrical outlets at or below counter-top level with outlet covers.

6.   Take off an electric outlet cover or switch plate, aim a flashlight into the box.

7.   That includes scraping off flaking paint, removing electrical outlet covers, taping around woodwork and patching any holes before you start.

8.   Turn off the power first, then take off the outlet cover, and pull out the outlet.