What is a "fire watch"?

A "fire watch" is a crucial temporary measure implemented to ensure the safety of a building when fire protection systems are not operational, such as during maintenance, repair, or malfunction of alarms, sprinklers, or other fire suppression systems. During a fire watch, trained personnel are assigned to monitor the premises for any signs of fire hazards and ensure that safety protocols are followed. This is vital in preventing potential disasters and protecting occupants, as the absence of operational fire protection systems significantly increases the risk of a fire going undetected.

This practice involves regularly checking for smoke, fire, and hazardous conditions, as well as maintaining communication with emergency services should a situation arise. By having a fire watch in place, a facility can comply with fire safety regulations and demonstrate due diligence in protecting the safety of its occupants.