When is a Fire Watch Security Guard required in Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami, Ft Lauderdale, Atlanta? When the fire suppression system, fire alarm or fire sprinkler system is out of service for over 4 hours in a 24 hour period due to maintenance or failure of the system.
A Fire Watch Guard is also required when there is a potentially hazardous conditions or an impairment to a fire protection feature.
The East Lake Fire Rescue in Pinellas County Florida, provides clarity on Fire Watch Duties
Persons serving as a fire watch cannot have any other duties except the fire watch. Fire watch duties will consist of the following:
Conduct periodic patrols of the affected areas and maintain a record of the fire watch for inspection
Be trained in the use of a fire extinguisher and have one accessible at all times.
Identify any fire, signs of fire, life or property hazards.
Knowledge of building floor layout, hazardous areas, emergency shut down procedures, emergency evacuation plan, etc.
Check all exits and exit access corridors to ensure means of egress are clear and unobstructed.
Check sprinkler system valves are in open position, if applicable.
Check for any smoking violations, or other sources of ignition.
The fire watch must have at least one means of direct communication with the Fire Department. (a cell phone is acceptable)
If a fire is discovered, the fire watch must first notify the Fire Department immediately by calling 9-1-1 and give exact address and location of the fire.
The fire watch personnel must then notify occupants of the need to evacuate. If the fire alarm horns or public-address system are still functional, use them to notify occupants. If appliances are not functional, then other means of notification must be available (i.e., bull horns).
Have knowledge of the location and use of fire protection equipment, such as fire extinguishers and occupant hose lines. (The fire watch will not perform fire-fighting duties beyond the scope of ordinary citizens)
Maintain a logbook of fire watch activity
Curtis Protective Services Fire Watch Guard Services
At first glance, the job of a fire watch guard seems simple, put that couldn’t be further from the truth. The policies and guidelines are clearly laid out by the fire marshal and local government on the responsibility and obligations of a fire watch guard, making them responsible for a heavy burden.
We understand that the need for Fire Watch Guards are unanticipated and require immediate response and are staffed accordingly to respond competently on short notice. Contact us today for more information.
