Abstract: The rapid expansion of the scale of distribution lines has led to occasional line failures, posing risks such as power outages, threaten personal safety, and even lead to the expansion of the fault. Hence, the precise identification and timely resolution of line failures are imperative. This paper delves into the investigation of a method for rapid identification and protection against single-phase break faults in 10 kV lines. Initially, a mathematical model based on the symmetric component method is formulated to delineate the boundary voltage and current conditions at the fracture point, enabling an analysis of the varying characteristics of each electrical parameter upon fault occurrence. Subsequently, a novel approach for identifying and safeguarding against faults in small ground current systems is introduced. This method leverages the zero-sequence voltage differential across both ends of the line as the initial criterion and the voltage differential across both ends of the line as the protective action criterion. Finally, a simulation model is constructed to simulate single-phase line break faults in 10 kV lines under diverse conditions. The simulation results verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.