Which of the following is considered an active fire protection system?

An active fire protection system is any fire protection method that requires action or intervention to function. Sprinkler systems are a prime example of this because they are designed to automatically discharge water when a fire is detected, actively suppressing the flames and protecting the building and its occupants. They respond dynamically to the presence of heat, making them an essential component in fire safety strategies, particularly in commercial and residential structures.

In contrast, fire walls and smoke barriers are passive fire protection systems. They are structural elements that help contain or slow down the spread of fire and smoke, but they do not take action on their own. Fire-retardant coatings also fall into the passive category as they protect materials from igniting but do not actively respond to change in the fire environment. Understanding the distinctions between active and passive fire protection systems is crucial for effective fire safety management and compliance with safety regulations.