SAFETY, ENERGY & WEATHER

GFCIs

(Information from the National Electrical Safety Foundation)

If this small device were installed in every home in the United States, more than two-thirds of all residential electrocutions could be prevented. The device is called a ground fault circuit interrupter or GFCI.

GFCIs are designed to detect ground faults that occur when electrical current is "leaking" somewhere outside the path where the current is supposed to flow. If your body provides the path to ground for this leakage, you could be burned, shocked or even electrocuted.

The GFCI:

Constantly monitors electricity flowing in a circuit.
Switches off power if current going into the circuit differs from that returning.
Limits the time you are exposed to the shock.
Helps protect against serious injury and electrocution.

Circuit breaker type GFCIs can be added in electrical panels to replace ordinary circuit breakers. They should be installed by a qualified licensed electrician.

Receptacle type GFCIs can be used in homes protected by either fuses or circuit breakers. They should be installed by a qualified licensed electrician or a consumer knowledgeable about electrical wiring practices.

Portable GFCIs simply plug into a receptacle and require no special knowledge or equipment to install. They can be used in any receptacle.

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Choptank Electric Cooperative, Inc., Route 404 & Route 328, Denton, Maryland 21629 Toll Free: 877-892-0001