If you use a portable hair dryer in the bathroom, government safety experts want you to install a ground fault circuit interrupter in the wall outlet or panel box to protect family members against electrocution should the hair dryer fall into the sink or bathtub.
According to Acting Chairman Anne Graham of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, "The GFCI shock protector constantly monitors electricity flowing through a circuit. If the hair dryer or any electric appliance accidentally topples into the sink or tub, the GFCI will shut down the power in milliseconds to protect the consumer against electrocution or severe electrical burn injuries.
GFCI shock protectors can be installed in wall outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, basements and throughout the house. The existing wall receptacle is removed and the GFCI is installed in its place. A combination GFCI/circuit breaker can also be installed in the main panel box to protect a complete circuit.
In new homes that comply with the National Electrical Code, GFCls are required for bathroom outlets and kitchen countertop receptacles that are within six feet of the kitchen sink, as well as for basements, garages and outlets on the exterior of the house.
"GFCIs are commonly available at building supply stores, electrical supply houses and hardware stores, but they should be installed by someone familiar with house wiring," Graham said. "Consumers should also consider using portable GFCI shock protectors that can be plugged into outlets when they are using power tools and other electrical products in and out of the home."
Consumers may obtain a free copy of the government's fact sheet on ground-fault circuit interrupters by sending a postcard to GFCI, Washington, D.C. 20207.
About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
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