What is the purpose of the standpipe system in high-rise buildings?

The standpipe system in high-rise buildings is primarily designed to provide firefighters with a reliable means of accessing water for manual discharge onto a fire. This system consists of a series of pipes that are strategically located within the building, allowing for effective water delivery to the floors above ground level where fires may occur. Firefighters can connect hoses to the standpipes at designated locations, facilitating a quick response to extinguish fires.

While the other options mention important aspects of fire safety systems, they do not accurately describe the specific purpose of the standpipe system. For example, while standpipe systems can contribute to firefighting efforts, they do not automatically extinguish fires or serve primarily to supply water to sprinkler systems. Moreover, detection of smoke is the function of alarm systems rather than standpipe systems. Thus, the correct identification of the standpipe's role in providing water for manual firefighting underscores its critical function in the safety and management of fire incidents in high-rise buildings.