GFCI and AFCIs

According to statistics, reported deaths and injuries due to electrical hazards appear to be on the decline. A sizable part of the reason for this decline may be due to the use of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs). GFCIs help protect against electrical shock, and AFCIs help prevent electrical fires by detecting hazards that can create them.

You can help keep your family safe from electrical hazards by learning about safe practices, staying alert and periodically screening your home. Ensure you are using quality electrical safety products like GFCIs and AFCIs to guard against electrical shocks and fires.

GFCIs

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is one of the most important safety devices in your home. In the past 30 years, it is estimated that the installation of GFCIs have saved hundreds of lives and prevented thousands of injuries in the U.S. alone.

Electrical shock is often caused by ground faults, or leakage currents (occurring when the electrical current flows outside of the circuit conductors). GFCIs are specifically designed to provide protection in both situations.

AFCIs

Another electrical safety device is an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters, or AFCIs. They are designed to prevent fires caused by dangerous electrical arcs, one of the major causes of residential electrical fires, currently numbering in the thousands each year. It is projected that use of new AFCI technology could prevent 50-75% of these fires, save hundreds of lives, and dramatically reduce thousands of injuries and the almost $1 billion lost each year in property damage.