Key Takeaways
- A 24-hour fire watch service is required when fire systems fail or undergo maintenance.
- Only trained and licensed guards should perform fire watch duties.
- Always comply with local fire department regulations to avoid fines.
- Choose providers with experience, certification, and 24/7 support.
- Detailed logs and patrol reports help with compliance and safety audits.
Why Fire Watch Services Are Important
Fire safety is one of the most important responsibilities for any property owner or manager. When fire alarms, sprinklers, or other safety systems stop working, a 24-hour fire watch becomes essential.
These services ensure that trained personnel are on-site at all times to watch for fire hazards and respond quickly if danger arises. A 24-hour fire watch service acts as your first line of defense until all fire protection systems are fully functional again.
Understanding 24-Hour Fire Watch Services
A fire watch is a continuous safety operation carried out by trained guards who monitor a building for fire risks.
The main goal: protect life and property when fire detection systems are out of order or under maintenance.
What fire watch personnel do:
- Walk the premises regularly to look for smoke, heat, or unusual odors.
- Keep logs of patrol rounds and report findings to management.
- Maintain communication with the fire department if an issue arises.
- Evacuate occupants and use extinguishers if a fire starts.
This service remains active around the clock until fire systems are repaired and cleared for safe operation.
When You Need a 24-Hour Fire Watch
You might be required by law or insurance to hire a fire watch team under certain conditions.
Common situations include:
- System malfunction: Fire alarms or sprinklers are broken or disabled.
- Construction or renovation: Fire systems are temporarily offline during work.
- Power outages: Backup systems are not available or are malfunctioning.
- High-risk facilities: Properties with flammable materials, like warehouses or chemical plants.
- After a fire incident, Extra monitoring is needed to prevent reignition.
Having a 24-hour fire watch service during these times helps meet safety regulations and protect your property from serious loss.
Who Performs Fire Watch Duties
Fire watch personnel are not just regular guards. They receive special training focused on fire prevention and emergency response.
Their responsibilities include:
- Performing patrols at least once every 15–30 minutes.
- Checking fire extinguishers, alarms, and exits.
- Keeping a written log of inspections and actions.
- Reporting any potential hazards to management immediately.
- Contacting the fire department at the first sign of danger.
Some companies provide dedicated fire safety officers who work exclusively on fire watch assignments for industrial and commercial sites.
Legal and Safety Requirements
Local fire departments and building codes often require fire watch coverage in specific cases.
In California, for example:
- Either the property owner or the manager must notify the local fire department when a system fails.
- A certified 24-hour fire watch team must be present until repairs are complete.
- Daily reports must be maintained and available for inspection.
Irregularities in any of the above can lead to heavy fines, insurance issues, or even business shutdowns.
Types of Fire Watch Services
Depending on your property and level of risk, fire watch coverage can vary.
Main Types of Firewatch include:
- Short-term fire watch services
- For minor system repairs or upgrades.
- Typically lasts only a few hours to a couple of days.
- Long-term or 24-hour fire watch services
- Required for ongoing system failures or construction projects
- Guards work in shifts to ensure constant coverage
- Specialized industrial fire watch
- They are mainly used in factories, chemical plants, and shipyards.
- Firewatch guards are taught to manage harmful substances and stick to safety guidelines at work.
How to Choose a Reliable 24-Hour Fire Watch Service
Choosing the right company can prevent costly mistakes and ensure compliance with fire codes.
What to check before hiring:
- Licensing: Make sure the provider is legally certified to offer fire watch services.
- Training: Firewatch guards should have fire safety and emergency response certification.
- Experience: Companies with commercial or industrial expertise are often better prepared.
- 24/7 availability: Fire risks can occur at any hour, so constant coverage is key.
- Insurance: Always confirm liability insurance for protection against damages.
It’s always a good decision to check testimonials, reviews from past clients, and online ratings to confirm reliability.
The Cost of Fire Watch Services
Pricing depends on several factors, such as property size, location, and risk level.
Typical cost considerations:
- Number of guards needed per shift.
- Duration of service (short-term or continuous).
- Type of property (residential, industrial, or commercial).
- Required certifications and training levels.
While cost is important, choosing the cheapest option can lead to unsafe conditions or regulatory problems. Quality and experience should come first.
Benefits of 24-Hour Fire Watch Protection
Hiring a professional fire watch security service makes you breathe easier and helps you stay compliant with safety laws.
Key benefits include:
- Immediate hazard Identification: Firewatch guards spot early signs of fire or smoke.
- Compliance with local codes: Avoids fines and shutdowns.
- Continuous protection: Coverage continues even during system repairs.
- Detailed documentation: Logs help with insurance claims and inspections.
- Enhanced property safety: Prevents damage and saves lives.
How to Prepare for Fire Watch Operations
Before the team starts, you can make their job smoother by preparing the site.
Preparation checklist:
- Provide access to all areas, including restricted zones.
- Ensure lighting is adequate in hallways and stairwells.
- Give clear instructions on reporting procedures and emergency contacts.
- Inform building occupants about ongoing fire watch activities.
Good preparation ensures accurate patrols and faster response times.
Transitioning Back to Normal Operations
Once your fire systems are repaired and inspected, you can safely discontinue the fire watch.
Steps to close the fire watch:
- Obtain written clearance from the fire department.
- Review and store all patrol logs for records.
- Evaluate the service provider’s performance for future needs.
Having a trusted fire watch partner makes transitions easy and keeps you ready for any future requirements.
FAQS
What does a 24-hour fire watch mean?
It’s a continuous safety service where trained guards monitor a property day and night for fire risks.
When is a fire watch required?
When fire alarms, sprinklers, or detection systems are disabled, under repair, or offline.
Who can perform fire watch duties?
Licensed and trained fire watch guards who understand safety codes and emergency procedures.
How much does a 24-hour fire watch cost?
Costs vary by property size and coverage time, usually charged hourly per guard.
Can fire watch replace fire alarm systems?
No, it’s a temporary safety measure until alarm or sprinkler systems are restored.