What type of electrical anomalies can a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter prevent?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to protect against electrical shocks, making it essential for safety in areas where the risk of water contact is higher, such as bathrooms and kitchens. It works by detecting discrepancies between the incoming and outgoing current in a circuit. If there is an imbalance, which can occur if a person comes into contact with a live electrical source, the GFCI quickly interrupts the flow of electricity, significantly reducing the chance of severe injury or electrocution.

The function of a GFCI primarily revolves around its sensitivity to ground faults — which is when electricity takes an unintended path to the ground, often through a person. While the other anomalies listed might pose risks in various electrical contexts, they are not specifically addressed by a GFCI. For instance, overheating and short circuits are typically managed by fuse or breaker systems, while voltage spikes are more related to electrical surges that can be mitigated with surge protectors. Therefore, the GFCI's dedicated role in preventing electrical shocks is what establishes it as the correct response in this context.