Key points:
- Why compliance isn’t the only reason for fire guards.
- How dual-trained personnel provided added protection.
- When to consider staffing third-party partners.
Compliance isn’t the only reason to staff fire guards or security personnel. When internal occupancy is higher than usual, or you’re expecting large crowds internally or externally, a third-party partner helps you take a proactive approach.
When compliance isn’t an issue, but safety risks are higher than average, consider dispatching dual-trained security and fire watch. These safety professionals are trained and certified in both skill sets for maximum oversight and as-needed response and evacuation. If the need for formal fire monitoring arises, you can transition their role without delay.
1. During Nearby Community Events
Identify upcoming events that increase street traffic, foot traffic, and internal business. In addition to staffing additional team members to manage the rush, consider staffing a safety professional or two. They can help keep entrances and exits clear, manage occupancy, and keep an eye out for fire and safety hazards. The nearby event staffs their own team, but their primary responsibility is to the event itself.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Block parties
- Concerts
- Fairs and Festivals
- Food crawls
- Holiday events
- Marches/protests
- Parades
- Sports games
- Other nearby events
2. Post-Natural Disaster
Another time to consider hiring an added set of eyes and ears is after a natural disaster—even if plumbing and safety systems are fully operational. As storm cleanup ensues, it’s not uncommon for the power and water to go down, and with them your fire alarm and suppression system. Dispatching a monitor proactively ensures immediate compliance.
3. Busy Season
The busy season of your restaurant or retail location is another time to consider staffing dual-trained security and fire guards. This could be all day long, or during your busiest times of the day. When staffing, consider which areas of your building or business are the busiest. While you may not exceed building-wide or business-wide occupancy, you may require dedicated professionals to manage crowd control.
Read More:
- DFPC-Compliant Fire Watch Services in Denver
- Unique Consideration For High-Rise Fire Watch
- The Critical Role of Temporary Fire Watch
- How to Set Your Fire Monitor Up For Success
4. During Slightly Increased Fire Risk
Hot work requires continuous monitoring and strategic patrolling, as it significantly increases fire risk. While not required, consider other scenarios that increase fire risk. For example, during a small internal event with lighting and AV equipment.
Other risks include:
- When using commercial heaters or short-term industrial equipment.
- During small events that require the use of multiple power strips.
- When relocating flammable or hazardous materials in your business.
5. During Small Internal Events
If you’re hosting a small company party or event for your team, tenants, or clients that doesn’t require a fire permit or special event permit—consider staffing third-party partners as a proactive approach. Things can spiral quickly during events, so fire guards provide added peace of mind.
24/7 Fire Guards in Denver and The Springs
Don’t let the name fool you, as Scout Security provides both security guards and fire watch guards. Many of our team members are dual-trained, making it easy to transition their role if the need arises.
We work independently or with your internal security team to take a proactive approach to keeping your business, building, and guests safe and secure.
