R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-19.1-2: Definitions.

The following terms when used in this chapter have the following meanings:

(a) “Disability” means a condition of physical incapacity to perform any assigned duty or duties in the fire department.

(b) “Fire department” means service groups (paid or volunteer) that are organized and trained for the prevention and control of loss of life and property from any fire or disaster.

(c) “Firefighter” means an individual, paid or volunteer, who is a member of a fire department or a city, town, or fire district emergency medical services unit and is required to respond to alarms and performs emergency action.

(d) “Occupational cancer” means a cancer arising out of the person’s employment as a firefighter, due to injury from exposures to smoke, fumes, or carcinogenic, poisonous, toxic, or chemical substances while in the performance of active duty in the fire department.