Power Outlets That Don't Shock To Be Released in Canada

The new receptacles have a built-in shutter system that prevents anything from going into just one hole. The shutters will open only if two prongs are heading into the holes at the same time.

Boxell says it would be unlikely for a child to stick two pins into an outlet at the same time.

"We know from the research and obviously child development, and such things, that children don't do that," she said.

"Because at the stage of development where they're curious and they're exploring these types of things, like what object fits into what slot, it's beyond their level of cognition to actually do that."

And although it's not required for existing homes, Stephen Brown, director of electrotechnical codes and standards for the Canadian Standards Association, says homeowners may wish to replace their receptacles.

"The cost of actually installing one of these receptacles is very, very inexpensive," he said in an interview.

"We may wish to do that as homeowners, just to ensure it's a safe surrounding for children."