Electric signs installed within a fountain must have GFCI protection within a distance of how many feet from the fountain edge?

Electric signs installed within a fountain must have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection within 10 feet from the fountain edge. This requirement is crucial because it helps ensure safety in locations where there is an increased risk of electric shock due to the presence of water. The NEC emphasizes the need for GFCI protection in wet locations, particularly when electrical equipment is near water bodies, as the combination creates a higher potential hazard.

Having GFCI protection within this distance allows for rapid disconnection of electrical power in the event of a ground fault, significantly reducing the risk of electrical shock to individuals who may come into contact with both the electric sign and the water. Implementing this precaution aligns with the NEC's goal to protect people from electrical hazards in necessary installations around water features.