Which individuals are considered suppression forces?

Members assigned to fire companies are considered suppression forces because their primary role involves engaging in firefighting operations. This includes responding to fire incidents, operating fire suppression equipment, and executing tactical maneuvers to control and extinguish fires. These personnel are specifically trained for fire suppression activities, making them essential to the operational effectiveness of a fire department.

In contrast, administrative members do not engage in direct firefighting activities; their responsibilities focus on management and support functions within the fire department. Emergency medical technicians primarily provide medical care and support during emergencies but are not specifically trained for fire suppression, although they may play a critical role in emergency responses. Volunteer firefighters can be considered part of the suppression forces if they are assigned to fire companies and trained in firefighting, but the term "suppression forces" typically refers to those directly engaged in firefighting duties as their primary role.