Here's why:

* Hot wire: This is the wire carrying the electrical current from the power source. The fuse is placed in this wire to interrupt the flow of current if there's an overload or short circuit.

* Neutral wire: This wire carries the return current back to the power source. It's not typically where the fuse is placed because it's not the primary path for the current.

* Ground wire: This wire provides a safety path for current to flow in the event of a fault. It's not where the fuse is placed because it's not part of the normal current path.

In summary: The fuse is placed in the hot wire to protect the circuit from damage caused by overloads or short circuits.