Fire Watch

Are you experiencing malfunctions with your fire alarm system? Is your water being turned off for construction, renovation, or repairs? Perhaps the fire marshal has suspended your stay put policy and you need to switch to simultaneous evacuation?

Whatever your fire protection needs, our fire watch and waking watch services can help.

Professional Fire Watch guards

Whether permanent or temporary, FRG provides expert 24/7 Fire Watch Services also known as Waking Watch Services, for any high-rise building, apartment blocks, commercial property or vacant property.

Our fire watch guards are SIA licensed and trained to spot fire hazards, initiate evacuation protocols and alert emergency services in the event of a fire. We'll work with you and the fire marshal to minimise any potential dangers to loss of life, keep your business running smoothly without interruption.

What is a Fire Watch Service and When Do You Need It? 

A fire watch service is a critical safety measure implemented when fire detection, alarm systems, or sprinklers are out of service-or when a building presents an elevated fire risk due to ongoing works, system faults, or regulatory requirements. Trained fire watch personnel are responsible for continuously patrolling a site, identifying hazards, and taking immediate action in the event of a fire emergency. 

You may require a professional fire watch service if: 

• Your fire alarm or sprinkler system is temporarily offline 
• You are carrying out hot works such as welding or cutting 
• Your premises are vacant or partially occupied 
• A fire risk assessment highlights increased risk level 
• Local authorities or insurers have mandated additional coverage 

At First Response Group, our SIA licensed fire watch teams are fully trained to operate in a variety of environments, ensuring compliance, safety, and peace of mind. 

We deliver tailored fire watch solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of your site. Our services include: 

• 24/7 on-site monitoring with highly trained security officers 
• Continuous patrols of high-risk zones and vulnerable areas 
• Immediate escalation procedures in the event of fire or hazard detection 
• Detailed incident reporting and compliance documentation 
• Integration with broader security operations, where required 

Our officers are also supported by our wider security guarding team, always ensuring a seamless and professional response. 

Integrated Fire Safety and Security Solutions  

Fire watch services are most effective when combined with a comprehensive safety and security strategy. First Response Group offers a fully integrated approach, combining physical security, technology, and risk management. 

For example, you can enhance your fire safety provision by integrating: 

• Mobile Patrols for larger or multi-site operations 

• CCTV Monitoring to provide additional visibility and rapid response 

• Key Holding for fast incident resolution outside of working hours 

This integrated model ensures that fire risks are mitigated alongside broader security threats, creating a safer environment for your people and assets. 

Compliance, Regulations, and Duty of Care  

UK fire safety regulations require responsible persons to ensure adequate fire precautions are always in place. When fire protection systems fail-or when risks increase-implementing a professional fire watch can help you remain compliant with legal obligations. 

Our teams are fully briefed on: 

• Fire safety procedures and evacuation policies 
• Hazard identification and reporting protocols 
• Coordination with emergency services 
• Maintaining audit trails for compliance and insurance purposes 

We also work alongside your existing fire risk assessments and operational procedures to ensure alignment with best practice. 

Industries We Support 

Our fire watch services are trusted across a wide range of sectors, including: 

• Construction and development sites 
• Commercial offices and corporate environments 
• Industrial sites and warehouses 
• Retail centres and high-footfall venues 
• Vacant and void properties 

If your site also requires additional operational support, we can integrate fire watch personnel with our facilities management to deliver a fully managed solution. 

Why Choose First Response Group for Fire Watch? 

• Proven experience in high-risk and time-sensitive environments 
• National coverage with rapid deployment capability 
• Highly trained and licensed security professionals 
• Flexible contracts tailored to short-term or long-term needs 
• Backed by a wider suite of security services  

We understand that fire watch services are often required urgently. Our teams are ready to mobilise quickly, ensuring your site remains protected and compliant without delay.