What is a GFCI?
Answer:
GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. 
A GFCI device is a safety device used in electrical circuitry and designed to protect against shock, fire, or even explosion, which may be caused if the electrical circuit is shorted out by water or other means.

GFCI devices are required by most building codes for electrical circuits installed in areas within close proximity to water and moisture sources, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, and outdoor spas, pools and exterior power outlets.

The way the GFCI device works is this:  The device is designed to constantly monitor the circuit it is installed in for any loss of current.  If the device detects variation beyond its set limits, it immediately trips, stopping the flow of the electicity in that circuit. 

When the problem is repaired and the GFCI is manually "reset", the electricity will once again flow through the circuit safely.    

When a GFCI is properly wired into an electrical circuit, whether in the breaker panel, or in an individual outlet, it will break (interrupt) the electrical power flow in that circuit when it is shorted out, thereby preventing potentially serious danger.
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