An improved fuse element for use in a circuit protection fuse. The fuse element may include an insulating substrate portion and a conductive metallic portion disposed on at least one surface of the insulating substrate portion, wherein the metallic portion extends along, and is in continuous, intimate contact with the substrate portion. When the metallic portion melts and separates upon the occurrence of an overcurrent condition, the substrate portion bridges the resulting gap that is formed in the metallic portion and provides electrical arc suppression therein.