Abstract: This invention provides an electronic safety break device and method for protecting an electrical circuit. In a preferred embodiment, the electronic safety break device of this invention includes switching means for making and breaking an electrical connection, current measuring means for measuring the magnitude and direction of the current flowing through the connection, voltage measuring means for measuring voltage on each side of the electrical connection, and means responsive to the current and voltage measuring means for controlling the switching means. The electronic safety break device and method of the present invention thus provide for a bidirectional safety break for an electrical connection between a rechargeable battery and a load and other external circuitry, protecting the battery from excessive charge and discharge currents and from undervoltage and overvoltage conditions, or any combination of these conditions.