Roles and Responsibilities of Fire Watch Services
Fire watch services focus on reducing risk, loss, safety and reporting any fire incidents on the premises. A fire watch guard service is established by a patrol or person responsible for checking on buildings or premises for extreme fire hazard situations. Businesses usually conduct fire watch services when the risk of fire-related incidents is high. For instance, when ‘hot work’ construction is taking place at a site, the water sprinkler system is not working, or in the case of fire alarm malfunction.
The Role of Fire Watch Services
The responsibilities of fire watch teams may vary depending upon the type of jobs and locations. However, some basic tasks come with each position, like checking fire extinguishers and all the exits. They need to carry essential materials necessary for quick evacuation and notification in the event of a fire. In most cases, the fire security guards carry a flashlight, portable horn, walkie-talkie, and an all-access set of keys of all the gates. They play an active role in preventing damage in case of fire.
Prevention is better than cure
While, yes, you obviously need up-to-date commercial fire alarm systems that are able to detect fires as soon as they happen and are compliant with the law, it would be great for businesses and construction sites to take the necessary steps to prevent a fire from happening. Fire watch personnel keep watch on potential fire hazards while patrolling. They check for unexpected sparks, combustive and flammable items near heat sources, fire from electrical appliances, etc. and can also inspect fire extinguishers visually to make sure they are up to date.
Informing through phone calls
Fire watch Services confirm the event of a fire if any alarm goes off, there is smoke or other signs of fire. After visually confirming the event of a fire, the guards activate the fire alarm system, if it is not ringing already. They will make phone calls to the fire department, officials of the property, supervisors, and fellow security guards to inform about the situation.
Evacuation
In the event of a fire, once the fire watch guard informs everyone of the situation, they take the necessary steps to help people move towards the closest emergency exit. They make sure that doorways are completely open and people can pass through them easily and quickly.
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