Fire watch guards are required anytime the fire system is not operable. It can be an alarm or sprinkler system that is down due to damage or scheduled maintenance, for 4 or more hours in a 24 hour period.
It can be overwhelming when a fire marshal orders a property managers or owners to hire a fire watch guard. It is important to adhere to local authorities and requirements to avoid costly fines.
For instance, the Seminole County Government Fire Watch Procedures looks similar to other counties in Florida.
During the rounds, fire watch personnel shall make a thorough inspection of the building or spaces assigned to him/her noting at a minimum the following:
1. Outside doors and windows are closed and locked; fire doors are closed and not chained or tampered with to prevent exiting the structure.
2. All oily waste rags, paint residue, rubbish, etc., are in proper closed containers or removed from the building.
3. All fire apparatus such as extinguisher hose lines, etc., are in place and not obstructed.
4. A isle and exit way are clear and not obstructed.
5. Motors and machines not required to be running are shut off.
6. All offices, conference rooms, file rooms, shall be checked.
7. All gas and electric heater or other heating equipment checked regularly
8. All hazardous processes or manufacturing processes are in safe condition.
9. Flammable and combustible materials are properly stored in containers or in storage areas.
10. All sprinkler valves required to be open are chained in the open position.
11. Particular attention shall be given to any areas of new construction or alteration areas for fire.
Fire watch personnel shall report promptly any conditions that need immediate attention. Reports of this nature shall be covered by written management directions. Conditions that appear to be fire hazards shall be reported and noted on the fire watch hourly report of rounds. Fire watch personnel shall conduct themselves in such a way as not to interfere with the normal activities of the business and they must be capable of performing their tasks
Curtis Protective Services is a leader in the Fire Watch Guard industry. Safety is our highest priority, we have an in-depth knowledge of fire hazards, and quick response to any signs of danger to prevent loss of life and property damage.
We understand that situations were a Fire Watch Guard is necessary are typically unanticipated and require immediate response and are staffed accordingly to respond competently on short notice.
