A varistor component and a method for securing a varistor component are disclosed. In an embodiment a varistor component includes a first external contact, a second external contact, a varistor electrically connected to the first external contact, a path between the varistor and the second external contact and an active releasing device having a shutter and a heat sensitive element, wherein, under abnormal operation conditions, the heat sensitive element releases the shutter, and the shutter moves along a straight line and closes the path between the varistor and the second external contact.