[Scuderia_Turini]

So what components deal with the situation when I come off, and presumably short between the two rails,a it drops into safe mode, and I have to unplug and switch it on again after counting to 10?

Hello Jeremy,
That is because the electronics in the Power-base or power supply cuts-out or "clamps" the supply voltage when it detects an overload (short-circuit).  That can either be reset automatically after a delay or by powering down and up again.  In powering down and up again it is best practice to wait a few seconds rather than simply flicking the switch off and on again. The delayed restart will ensure that all current flow is fully dissipated.
Which power base are you using?

Leo