Basic fire watch, building and operational security systems are typically used as a first responder on the scene of an emergency. These systems are used as an initial arrangement by which the fire guard is charged with patrol to personally check and survey the entire premises for any potential or existing fire hazards (real fires). The fire watch system has evolved from the original use of purely visual observation as a means to stop fire to the more complex systems employing active protection systems like carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers and also closed circuit cameras to stop fires at the earliest possible indication. Modern fire watches also incorporate other advanced technologies to give full protection to a premises against any fire threats including carbon monoxide alarms, fire sprinklers and smoke detectors. Advanced fire watches are designed to be compact and are often used on patrol in conjunction with a regular security guard and/or a special duty police officer.
A fire watch guard should primarily be equipped with: One, a pair of full body vests that are flame resistant; Two, fire proof ear plugs; Three, approved fire fighting equipment such as: Combination smoke pellets, hoses and equipment; Four, a fire blanket; Five, fire hose with high pressure; Six, flotation device; and Seven, a fire extinguisher. Other optional equipment that may be required includes: Ladder and rescue rope, fire blankets and personal flotation devices, and a fire watch uniform. Fire watch guards may also be required to wear other accessories depending on the nature of their duties. It is important for the personnel in the area to know the location of fire watch guards to ensure proper notification. For example, if a fire watch is located in a business, it is important to make sure all personnel know the exact location of the guard. All fires should be contained within the immediate area of the guard.
Fire Watch Guards must learn early on the basics of fire safety. Fire Watch Guards must observe and report all types of fire hazards that they come across in their daily duties. These include fires that break out in buildings or homes, gas leaks, electrical fires and any other type of dangerous blaze. To prevent serious fires from occurring, fire watch guards must have the necessary training to handle any type of blaze and emergency situations that may occur. Fire safety training classes are usually offered by local fire departments.
Once hired by a local fire department, the employee is typically assigned an instructor to assist in training. The instructor will teach the individual about fire watch guards, common fire hazards and emergency procedures. At the end of the training program, the instructor will review the individual’s progress and make suggestions on what further instruction is needed.
Some states require employers to submit a yearly certification to state licensing boards to demonstrate compliance with their anti-theft and safety policies. In addition to receiving the proper certification, the employee must also complete a certification test that consists of a written exam as well as practical training. The test will gauge whether the applicant possesses the knowledge required for fire watch guards. If the individual passes the test, he will receive the proper identification as well as a card certifying him as a qualified fire watch guard.
Many state and federal agencies require their guards to be appropriately trained in order to provide adequate protection to both public and private property. For this reason, the certification provided by the National Fire Protection Association is one of the most recognized and valuable. This certification is usually obtainable through a short online course. Fire watch guard training and security professionals can help protect the property and human life by working in a variety of environment settings such as hospitals, schools, government buildings, prisons and other facilities.