You do not say make and model - but no matter
A thermal cut out stops the heating when things get too hot - a vacuum cleaner will have one to prevent an internal fire.
Gas cookers have flame failure devices - they shut off the gas if no heat is detected so the house doesn't fill with gas
Google Images will show you pictures of both of these.
It is not possible to send you pictures - you are not encouraged to give your contact details.
Good Luck...
March 2016