(pronounced SER-keht BRAY-ker)

This ingenious device saves all of us from regularly getting into a whole lot of trouble. It’s a switch that will automatically stop the current of an electric circuit when we overload it with too much stuff drawing too much amperage (i.e., power). When you “throw a breaker,” then items (lights, appliances, gadgets, etc.) that are wired or plugged into that circuit shut off, preventing damage. That’s when you go find the breaker box and set things right, making a mental note never to run the garbage disposal AND the microwave when every single light is on in the kitchen.