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If your property in Seattle experiences a fire alarm or sprinkler system outage, or if you’re managing a construction project involving “hot work” like welding or cutting, you may be required by law to have fire watch services in place. Fire watch isn’t optional — it’s a mandated safety measure enforced by fire marshals, building codes, and insurance requirements.
So when exactly do you need fire watch, and what do fire watch guards do? Let’s break it down.
Fire watch refers to a security measure where trained, licensed guards continuously patrol a property to monitor for signs of fire or hazards whenever standard fire protection systems (alarms, sprinklers) are non-functional.
The purpose is to:
Several authorities may mandate fire watch:
(Related read: How to Choose the Right Security Guard Company in Seattle)
If your alarms or sprinklers are out of service for more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period (per NFPA standards), a fire watch is usually required until repairs are complete.
Seattle construction sites performing welding, torch cutting, or other high-heat jobs often require fire watch personnel on standby to monitor sparks and prevent ignition.
(See also: Security for Construction Sites: Preventing Vandalism and Theft)
Events with large crowds, temporary structures, or blocked fire exits may be required to have fire watch as part of the permit process.
(Related: Event Security Best Practices)
If the Seattle Fire Marshal inspects your property and determines risks exist — whether during a renovation, system shutdown, or special event — they may mandate fire watch services until compliance is restored.
Guards conduct constant patrols, looking for smoke, sparks, overheating, or unsafe conditions.
All patrols are logged, and incidents are documented for compliance. These records can be reviewed by the Seattle Fire Department or insurance providers.
If a hazard is detected, fire watch guards immediately alert occupants, call 911, and help evacuate the building safely.
(Related read: What Does Mobile Patrol Security Involve?)
They patrol continuously, monitor for hazards, keep logs, and respond to fire risks until systems are restored.
Typically the Fire Marshal, insurance carriers, or building management when systems are offline.
Until fire alarms and sprinklers are repaired and re-certified as operational, or until the Fire Marshal lifts the mandate.
At Stonewall Security, we understand that fire watch is about more than compliance — it’s about protecting lives and property. Our licensed guards are trained in fire safety protocols, recordkeeping, and emergency response.
We work directly with the Seattle Fire Marshal’s Office and property managers to ensure your fire watch coverage meets all regulatory requirements.
Need immediate fire watch coverage in Seattle? Contact Stonewall Security today and we’ll deploy licensed fire watch guards to your property.
