What device is specifically designed to prevent equipment damage from voltage spikes?

The device designed specifically to prevent equipment damage from voltage spikes is the lightning arrester. Lightning arresters work by providing a low-resistance path to ground for excess voltage that can occur during lightning strikes or other voltage surge events. When a voltage spike occurs, the arrester diverts the surge away from sensitive electrical equipment, thereby protecting it from damage.

This protection is crucial for maintaining the integrity of electrical systems, particularly in outdoor or exposed environments where lightning and electrical surges can pose significant risks. The lightning arrester acts effectively to safeguard transformers, communication lines, and various types of electrical installations.

In contrast, while circuit breakers and fuses also protect electrical systems, they primarily serve to prevent overcurrent conditions rather than specifically targeting voltage spikes. A switch merely controls the flow of electricity and does not provide protection against surges. Thus, the lightning arrester is specifically tailored to mitigate the risks associated with voltage spikes, making it the correct choice for this question.