How could we prevent, or at least minimize, lot of damage done by way of fire due to short circuit?

Question

I mean common fire in houses or shopping centers starting in electrical wiring.

Answer 1

The easy answer is to prevent the short circuit in the first place by using proper engineering and installation practices. There are plenty of good methods in use already that will limit damage from wet sprinkler systems to fire proofing and draft stops. Unfortunately the cost of installing these systems is usually seen as unnecessary by most owners unless required by code.

Answer 2

Circuit breakers?
Fuses?
What do you mean?