Which of the following is a characteristic of a properly grounded system?

A properly grounded system is essential for electrical safety, particularly in reducing the risk of electrical shocks to individuals. Grounding provides a safe path for electrical current to return to the ground in the event of a fault or short circuit. This helps to ensure that any stray electricity does not pose a hazard to people who may come into contact with the system or equipment connected to it. When the system is properly grounded, it minimizes the likelihood of electrical shock, thus enhancing overall safety in environments where fire alarm systems operate.

While other options discuss potential benefits associated with grounding, they do not accurately reflect the primary characteristic of a grounded system. For example, preventing electrical fires can be a benefit of grounding in some scenarios, but grounding itself does not directly prevent fires; rather, it mitigates the risks associated with electrical faults. Similarly, reducing electrical energy consumption is not an inherent characteristic of grounding, as grounding focuses on safety rather than energy efficiency. Lastly, stating that a grounded system requires no maintenance once installed oversimplifies the reality of electrical systems, which may require periodic checks and maintenance to ensure they function properly over time.