Why hire a security company for fire watch?
Your fire alarm system just failed an inspection… a power outage has knocked your fire alarms offline… your sprinkler system is down …these are all things that can put your business at risk. Every year commercial and residential properties across Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia find themselves in this position. Emergencies happen, and when they do, you need to hire professionals. Any time your fire security system malfunctions, you need fire watch patrol service
What Is a Fire Watch Patrol Service?
A fire watch patrol is a specialty crew that has been trained to keep an eye on your property and watch for any signs of fire. Here are just some of the things a professional fire watch company does during patrol:
- Patrol floors every hour
- Ensure exits and walkways remain clear
- Identify and report any safety concerns
- Sound the alert in case of fire and contact the fire department
- Carry megaphones to alert building occupants in case of fire
- Carry flashlights to be used in low light situations
- Uses two-way radios to maintain communication with other officers on site
- Document all patrol activities in patrol log
Why Should Businesses Only Use Security Companies for Fire Watch Patrol?
When you find yourself in need of a fire watch patrol, you may be tempted to use your maintenance staff or hire a staffing company with day laborers to handle the job. While this may be a way to save some cash, cutting corners in this manner can get you into real trouble. The absolute best option for fire watch is to hire a licensed security company. Why? Here are some of the biggest reasons:
Fire Watch Security Staff Know What They Are Doing
Fire Watch is a specified skill that requires specific training. The best security companies already have training programs in place for their staff. They can easily add fire watch in their training regimen.
They have the proper insurance coverage
Fire watch service is not usually included in the liability insurance for maintenance people. Fire watch patrols are included in most security insurance policies.
Security Companies Offer a Faster Response
Security companies have people on standby to respond to last minute request. As a result, they can get personnel to your location faster. Fire watch security companies like ours can typically have staff on site within 2-3 hours.
Fire Watch Security Staff Are Experienced in Overnight Work
When you bring in maintenance people or others daytime personnel to watch your property overnight, you risk someone falling asleep on the job. Requiring an individual who is accustomed to working during the day to work overnight is a recipe for disaster.
It’s Against The Law
If your business is located in Washington DC, only licensed security companies can provide fire watch service. Failure to comply with DC Fire Watch Regulations can result in severe fines.
Reduce Your Liability
Fire is relatively rare, but if one does happen and you don’t have professional fire watch service, you could find yourself in a bad position. You accept 100% liability for everything that they do…or don’t do. Hiring professional security companies for fire watch service reduces your liability.
If you need fire watch service, hiring a professional security guard company who offers fire watch service is the best option. They have the training, infrastructure, and personnel to get the job done right. It is also a legal requirement in Washington DC. While it is not a legal obligation to hire security companies for fire watch in Virginia or Maryland , the benefits outweigh the risks of not doing so. Hire a security company for fire watch and know that you have the right people in place.
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