Fire Watch

Fires can be unpredictable and the best way to prevent or minimize the damage of a fire is to be prepared.  Ignoring damaged fire alarm systems can lead to dangerous and expensive consequences for all parties, regardless of level of involvement.  When a fire alarm system is not working correctly, people and possessions in the surrounding area become in danger.  After the 2016 Ghost Ship Fire, it was discovered the warehouse turned living spaces had multiple fire hazards such as an absence of fire alarms, sprinklers, and smoke alarms and blocked exits.  The fire hazards led to a fast and smokier fire and impeded residents’ escapes.  The building was not up to code to be a living space and was frequently neglected over the years.  Had the fire alarm system in the building been up to code and a fire plan in place, among other things, the fire could have been more easily managed by the authorities.

If your fire alarm system is impaired due to maintenance, testing or damage, a fire watch needs to be implemented.  The fire alarm system is used to prevent a fire and to notify the authorities in case there is a fire.  When a fire alarm system is unable to do either of these things and a fire occurs, more damage than necessary can happen.  According to the 2016 California Fire Code Section 403.12.1, Fire watch personnel are required when fire protection systems are unreliable.  California’s climate is fire-prone and requires great caution to prevent fires.  Without taking the necessary precautions, California emergency services will have to spend a lot of resources handling natural and man-made fires.

A fire watch security officer is to:

• Have constant access to portable fire extinguishers, including: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class C and multi-purpose.
• Report emergencies to the proper emergency services and company’s emergency contact.
• Execute company evacuation procedures in the event of a fire.
• Identify hazardous materials and conditions on the company’s premises.