Which type of fire protection system actively suppresses fires?

Fire suppression systems are specifically designed to actively extinguish or control fires when they occur. These systems can include a variety of methods, such as sprinkler systems, foam systems, and other types of agents that are deployed to suppress flames and limit the spread of fire. The key characteristic of fire suppression systems is their ability to engage automatically or manually to reduce fire hazards and protect lives and property.

In contrast, fire alarms serve primarily as detection systems that alert occupants or emergency services about the presence of a fire, but they do not contain or extinguish it. Passive containment strategies focus on building design elements that help prevent fire spread, such as fire barriers and materials, but they do not actively suppress a fire once it has started. Ventilation systems may help manage smoke and heat but do not directly control or extinguish fires. Therefore, fire suppression systems are distinct in their proactive approach to actively addressing fires, making them the correct choice in this context.