What is the primary purpose of a fire protection system?

The primary purpose of a fire protection system is to detect and control or extinguish fires to protect life and property. This highlights the system's comprehensive approach to fire safety, which involves not just extinguishing fires but also early detection, warning occupants, and implementing control measures to minimize risks to both human life and physical assets.

Fire protection systems are designed to work collaboratively; for example, smoke detectors alert occupants to the presence of fire, while sprinkler systems can be activated to suppress it. This integrated response is crucial for both preventing loss of life and reducing property damage. While preventing fires and ensuring code compliance are important aspects of fire safety practices, the central role of a fire protection system encompasses proactive detection and reactive control during a fire incident.