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When a fire alarm system fails or a sprinkler system is under maintenance, fire watch becomes a crucial necessity. Business owners and property managers may wonder: Can we handle fire watch duties ourselves? While the idea of do-it-yourself fire watch may seem cost-effective, it carries significant legal and safety risks. In this article, we explore why hiring professional Fire Watch Guards is not only advisable but often required by law.

What Is Fire Watch?

Fire watch is a critical safety protocol required by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) when fire detection or suppression systems are inoperable. Its goal is to monitor a property for signs of fire hazards and ensure emergency protocols are followed.

Fire watch duties include:

• Patrolling all affected areas regularly
• Identifying and mitigating fire risks
• Maintaining a fire log
• Contacting emergency services when needed

You can learn more about the fire watch code standards on the NFPA website.

Can You Legally DIY Fire Watch?

While not strictly illegal in all cases, most municipalities and fire departments require licensed Fire Watch Guards when fire protection systems are down. Performing fire watch duties without proper credentials may violate local fire codes and invalidate insurance coverage.

For example:

• Los Angeles Fire Department mandates certified personnel for commercial fire watch.
• Many jurisdictions require guards trained in OSHA safety standards.

Always verify with your local fire marshal or city ordinances before attempting a DIY fire watch.

Risks of DIY Fire Watch

1. Legal Liability

If a fire occurs while you’re performing an unqualified fire watch, you may be personally liable. This risk includes fines, lawsuits, or even criminal charges.

2. Lack of Training

Professional Fire Watch Guards undergo extensive training. Most DIY attempts miss:

• Recognizing early signs of fire hazards
• Proper documentation
• Communication with emergency services

3. Insurance Voids

Insurance providers often demand that fire watch be handled by licensed personnel. A DIY fire watch could lead to claim denial after an incident.

According to Forbes’ guide to commercial property insurance, insurance policies have strict compliance clauses for fire-related incidents.

4. Regulatory Non-Compliance

Failing to meet municipal regulations can result in shutdown orders or heavy penalties from local fire departments.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Fire Watch Guards

Expertise and Experience

Certified guards are trained in fire safety protocols, situational awareness, and emergency communication.

Compliance with Local Laws

Hiring a licensed guard ensures your business remains compliant with OSHA, NFPA, and municipal fire codes.

Documentation and Reporting

Professionals keep accurate, timestamped records — essential in the event of inspections or investigations.

Peace of Mind

With certified Fire Watch Guards on-site, property owners and managers can focus on other responsibilities.

Industries That Should Never DIY Fire Watch

Certain sectors face higher fire risks and stricter compliance standards:

• Hospitals and Nursing Homes
• Construction Sites
• Factories and Warehouses
• Schools and Universities

In these cases, fire watch services must align with both state laws and industry-specific regulations.

Real-Life Cases: DIY Fire Watch Failures

• A New York warehouse fire resulted in a $2.5 million insurance denial due to uncertified fire watch personnel.
• A restaurant in Chicago was fined $10,000 after a failed inspection revealed no professional guards during sprinkler maintenance.

Such examples underline the financial and reputational cost of bypassing professional fire watch services.

When DIY Might Be Permitted

In rare cases, such as small residential properties, the local authority may allow an owner to conduct fire watch for a limited time. However, strict documentation and patrol frequency are still required.

Important: This must always be approved in writing by your local fire marshal.

How to Hire Qualified Fire Watch Guards

• Check Licenses: Ensure guards are certified and recognized by state security licensing boards.
• Verify Insurance: Only work with companies that carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
• Look for Reviews: Use platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews for feedback.

Conclusion: Don’t Cut Corners With Fire Safety

While the DIY route might seem cheaper upfront, the risks far outweigh the savings. Legal exposure, insurance invalidation, and regulatory fines can be devastating.

Instead, partner with trained Fire Watch Guards who can protect your property, your people, and your peace of mind.