What safety device should be installed to prevent electric shock in wet areas?

Installing a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is essential for preventing electric shock in wet areas because it is specifically designed to protect users from electrical hazards in environments where moisture is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. A GFCI continuously monitors the electrical current flowing through a circuit. If it detects any imbalance—indicating that current is leaking, potentially through water or the human body—it automatically shuts off the electricity. This rapid disconnection significantly reduces the risk of electric shock, making it a crucial safety measure in locations where water and electricity might interact.

Other safety devices like circuit breakers and fuses serve primarily to protect electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits, but they do not provide the same level of personal protection against electric shock. Surge protectors are designed to protect devices from voltage spikes, but they are not meant to prevent electric shock in wet areas. Thus, the GFCI is the most effective and appropriate device for ensuring safety in environments where water is present.