Short Circuits and Safety

A short circuit happens when current finds a path with almost zero resistance — usually by bypassing the load entirely. Without resistance to slow it down, current spikes to dangerous levels. Wires overheat. Fires start.

A fuse contains a thin wire that melts when current exceeds a safe level, breaking the circuit. A circuit breaker does the same job but can be reset. Ground fault interrupters go further — they detect current leaking through your body and cut power in milliseconds.