1. INTRODUCTION
In cases where fire alarm systems fail, there is need to determine how the fire watch service will be carried out. The two types of fire watches include the periodic and the continuous method of fire watch. Each one of them has its pros and cons. Determining which method to adopt is dependent on the structure, danger involved and the fire authority guidelines.
Selecting the appropriate strategy among professional fire watch security services is critical to ensuring your building remains safe and fully compliant during a system outage. Evaluating how each operational model aligns with your facility’s specific layout and risk profile allows property managers to maintain effective oversight without overspending on unnecessary coverage.
2. WHAT SCHEDULED PATROLS MEAN
Under scheduled patrols, the guard will patrol around the building at predetermined times, often after one hour. In between these rounds, the guard will either have some downtime or can relocate elsewhere within the premises. All the areas identified in the fire watch plan will be patrolled.
It is a common strategy for use in offices, warehouses, and smaller buildings where the threat is moderate. Guards always carry with them a log sheet or tracker device to show the completed round.
3. WHAT CONTINUOUS PRESENCE MEANS
The continuous presence implies that there will be a constant presence of guards who will walk around in the building. There will be no long intervals between one check and another. Guards may constantly guard one zone, or each of the zones will have its own guard.
Such a form of guard service is widely used in hospitals, hotels, nursing homes, and other places where people may require assistance in leaving the premises.
4. ADVANTAGES OF SCHEDULED PATROLS
The largest strength of this strategy is that it is affordable. The number of hours billed will be relatively low because one guard can patrol a vast area. This system is easy to implement and fulfills one of the criteria in many codes. This strategy is straightforward and easy to explain and audit.
One of the major weaknesses is that there is an interval of time between each round. There could be a fire in between the rounds.
5. ADVANTAGES OF CONTINUOUS PRESENCE
Continuous presence provides quicker detection. Because someone will always be on-site, any minor issues will become evident within minutes. Guard presence can also provide guidance in evacuation.
The disadvantage is that it is expensive. More guard hours are required, and thus the expense rises. However, for certain structures, the additional expense is worthwhile.
6. HOW TO DECIDE
Start by consulting your local fire department on what is needed. In certain cases, continuous presence is mandatory. Then, consider the risk factors. The number of people in the building, whether they live in there, and the speed of the fire’s spread should all be considered. Finally, assess the costs, and consider the requirements of your insurance company. It is possible to combine the two approaches. One guard can be posted in a higher-risk area, while another patrols the rest of the building.
7. CONCLUSION
Scheduled patrolling is inexpensive and works well for low-risk buildings. Constant presence provides better security for buildings that have many occupants or high risks. However, none of the two methods is ideal for all buildings. Through reviewing the required codes, risk factor, and finances, building owners can select the one that ensures safety until fire systems are back.
