Short circuit

From FIRSTwiki

A short-circuit (sometimes refered to as just a short) is the term used to describe the phenomena when an electric circuit bypasses its main load, taking a shorter and unintended path. When the main electrical load is bypassed, the resistance to the flow of electrons is reduced. This results in an increased current flowing through the 'short', which can result in excessive heat and fire, destruction of electrical components, and/or releases of toxic fumes.

Damage from electrical short circuits can be prevented or reduced by installing fuses or circuit breakers. The failure to have these inline with the main circuit is very dangerous and is illegal in FIRST.