Which device is described as fast-acting to shut off power in the event of a ground fault?

• A. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)
• B. Circuit Breakers
• C. Smoke Detectors
• D. Fire Extinguishers

Answer: (A)

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters are designed to shut off power quickly when a ground fault occurs. They continuously monitor the current flowing in the hot and neutral wires and look for any imbalance that would indicate electricity is leaking to ground. When such a fault is detected, the device trips in a fraction of a second, cutting power to protect you from electric shock, especially in wet or damp areas where the risk is higher. Other devices listed serve different safety roles: circuit breakers protect against overloads or short circuits but aren’t mainly for ground faults, while smoke detectors and fire extinguishers address fire safety rather than electrical leakage.