Author: Brian Robinson

Fire watch procedures are a set of protocols that are followed by designated personnel, known as fire watch guards, to ensure the safety of a building or facility in the event of a fire or other emergency. These procedures are implemented when the fire alarm or sprinkler system is out of service, or when there is a significant risk of fire in the building. The main goal of fire watch procedures is to detect and report fires as soon as possible, to minimize the potential damage and loss of life.

The specific procedures for fire watch can vary depending on the company or organization, but generally, they include the following steps:

1. Preparation: Before the fire watch begins, the fire watch guards will receive training on the layout of the building, the location of fire alarms and extinguishers, and the evacuation plan. They will also be given a list of contact information for the local fire department and other emergency services.
2. Patrols: The fire watch guards will conduct regular patrols of the building to ensure that it is free of fire hazards and that all exits are clear. They will also check the fire alarms and sprinkler system to ensure that they are in working order.
3. Reporting: If the fire watch guards detect a fire or other emergency, they will immediately report it to the local fire department and other emergency services. They will also assist with the evacuation of the building and direct people to the designated assembly area.
4. Documentation: The fire watch guards will document all incidents, including the time, location, and details of the fire or emergency, as well as the actions taken to address it. This documentation will be used to improve fire safety procedures in the future.
5. Communication: The fire watch guards will keep in communication with the building’s occupants and staff and will provide them with clear instructions in case of an emergency.

It’s important to note that fire watch procedures should be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that they are current and effective, and that the fire watch personnel are properly trained. In addition, proper fire watch procedures should be in compliance with local codes and regulations.

There are several levels of impairment on a fire alarm system, including:

1. System impairment: This occurs when a component of the fire alarm system is not functioning properly, causing the entire system to be impaired.
2. Sensitivity impairment: This occurs when the system’s sensitivity is set too high, causing it to trigger false alarms.
3. Communication impairment: This occurs when the system’s communication pathways, such as phone lines or internet connections, are not functioning properly, preventing the system from transmitting an alarm signal.
4. Power impairment: This occurs when the system’s power source, such as batteries or a generator, is not functioning properly, causing the system to lose power and not function.
5. Tampering impairment: This occurs when someone intentionally or accidentally damages or disables the fire alarm system.

It’s important to note that impairment of fire alarm systems can compromise the safety of the building and its inhabitants, so regular maintenance and testing is important to keep the system working properly.

It is best to contact a professional fire alarm technician for assistance.

In commercial buildings, fire alarm systems are typically more complex and may include a combination of smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual pull stations, and audible and visual alarms. The fire alarm system may also be connected to a central monitoring station, which is notified in the event of an emergency.

It’s also important for commercial buildings to have regular fire drills and for building occupants to be familiar with emergency procedures in case of a real fire. Building management should also ensure that the fire alarm system is properly maintained and tested on a regular basis to minimize the likelihood of false alarms.

If you receive a violation for a backflow prevention device, you should take the following steps:

1. Review the violation notice to understand the specific issue that needs to be addressed.
2. Schedule an inspection with a certified backflow prevention device tester to have the device tested and repaired, if necessary.
3. Correct any identified issues and provide documentation of the repairs to the appropriate authority.
4. Keep records of all testing and repairs, in case of future audits.

One call to Cardinal Fire & Safety and we will take care of all of the items above on your behalf.

It’s very important to take necessary steps to correct the violation as soon as possible as backflow prevention is a critical safety measure that helps to prevent contamination of the public water supply.

If you receive a fire safety citation from the fire department, it is important to take immediate action to address any issues identified in the citation. This may include making necessary repairs or changes to your property, or providing additional information or documentation to the fire department. You should also comply with any deadlines or requirements specified in the citation to avoid additional penalties or fines.

1. Review the citation: Carefully read and understand the citation and the specific violations that have been identified.
2. Take corrective action: Identify and implement the necessary steps to correct any violations and bring your property into compliance with fire safety regulations.
3. Contact the fire department: If you have any questions or concerns about the citation, reach out to the fire department and ask for clarification.
4. Appeal the citation: If you believe the citation was issued in error, you have the right to appeal.
5. Keep records: Keep records of all correspondence, documentation, and any other information related to the citation.
6. Get Professional Help: In case of complex issues, It would be better to hire a fire safety professional or attorney to help you navigate the process.

Note: Fire safety citations can be serious and can result in fines, penalties, and even legal action, so it is important to take them seriously and take prompt action to address any issues.

Fire sprinkler systems require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly and are ready to activate in case of a fire. The frequency and scope of inspections and maintenance will depend on the type of system and the local codes and regulations. However, as a general rule, the following guidelines apply:

1. Annual inspections: Fire sprinkler systems should be inspected at least once a year by a qualified inspector to ensure that they are in good working condition and that all components are functioning properly.
2. Five-year inspections: Some components of fire sprinkler systems, such as sprinkler heads and valves, should be inspected every five years by a qualified inspector to ensure that they are not obstructed and that they will function properly in case of a fire.
3. Hydrostatic testing: Fire sprinkler systems should be hydrostatically tested every five years to ensure that the system can withstand the pressure of the water flow.
4. Maintenance: Fire sprinkler systems should be maintained on a regular basis to ensure that they are in good working condition. This includes tasks such as cleaning and lubricating moving parts, replacing worn or damaged components, and ensuring that the system is properly pressurized.
5. Additional Inspections: Additional inspections may be required depending on the type of system, location, and use of the building. For example, systems in corrosive or harsh environments may require more frequent inspections or maintenance.

It’s important for businesses to keep records of all inspection, maintenance and testing activities, and to keep them up to date, as it can be a requirement from the local authorities or insurance company.

Cardinal Fire will keep your fire sprinkler systems in good working order and maintain all record keeping on your behalf using our secure online system. We will test, fix, and certify your sprinkler system. Call us today for a free site visit.

Businesses should have monitored fire alarms for several reasons:

1. Immediate response: Monitored fire alarms are connected to a central monitoring station, which means that emergency services will be notified immediately if a fire is detected. This can lead to a faster response time and can help to minimize damage and injuries.
2. 24/7 protection: Monitored fire alarms provide protection 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even when the business is closed.
3. Reduced risk of false alarms: Monitored fire alarms are typically more reliable than traditional fire alarms. They are less likely to produce false alarms, which can lead to unnecessary emergency services calls and can cause employees and customers to become complacent about fire alarms in general.
4. Remote access: With monitored fire alarms, business owners can access the status of their fire alarm system remotely and can make changes or adjustments as needed.
5. Peace of mind: Knowing that your business is protected by a monitored fire alarm can give you peace of mind, and can help you to focus on running your business.
6. Meet Legal requirement: Many municipalities and insurance companies require monitored fire alarms as a condition of doing business. This can help businesses to avoid costly fines and penalties for non-compliance.
7. Cost effective: Monitored fire alarms can be more cost-effective in the long run than traditional fire alarms. By having a central monitoring station, businesses can avoid additional costs for maintenance and monitoring.

There are several reasons why a small or medium business may choose to hire a locally owned fire safety company:

1. Personalized service: Locally owned companies are typically smaller and more nimble than larger, national companies. This allows them to provide a more personalized service and tailor their solutions to the specific needs of their clients.
2. Knowledge of local codes and regulations: Locally owned fire safety companies are typically more familiar with the specific fire safety codes and regulations that apply to businesses in their area. This ensures that the solutions they provide will be in compliance with all local laws and regulations.
3. Faster response times: Locally owned fire safety companies are typically located closer to their clients than larger, national companies. This means that they can respond to service calls and emergency situations more quickly.
4. Stronger community ties: Locally owned fire safety companies are typically more invested in the community in which they operate. They are more likely to invest in the community through charitable activities, and they are more likely to understand and be sensitive to the specific needs of the community.
5. Competitive pricing: Locally owned companies usually offer more competitive pricing than larger, national companies. Since they have less overhead expenses, they can pass the savings on to the customer.
6. Support local economy: Hiring a locally owned fire safety company can support the local economy, it can create jobs, and it can help to sustain local business.

1. Q: What are some common causes of fires in small and medium businesses? A: Common causes of fires in small and medium businesses include electrical malfunctions, heating equipment, cooking equipment, and smoking materials.
2. Q: What are some basic fire safety measures that small and medium businesses should implement? A: Basic fire safety measures that small and medium businesses should implement include having working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, having an evacuation plan in place, and regularly inspecting and maintaining any equipment that may pose a fire risk.
3. Q: What should a small or medium business do if a fire breaks out? A: If a fire breaks out in a small or medium business, the first step is to activate the fire alarm and call 911. Employees should then evacuate the building and follow the established evacuation plan.
4. Q: Are there any legal requirements for fire safety in small and medium businesses? A: Yes, there are legal requirements for fire safety in small and medium businesses. These requirements vary by jurisdiction, but typically include having working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, having an evacuation plan in place, and regularly inspecting and maintaining any equipment that may pose a fire risk. Businesses should also ensure that they are in compliance with fire code regulations, and will be required to have regular fire safety inspection.
5. Q: How can small and medium businesses ensure that their fire safety measures are up to date and effective? A: Small and medium businesses can ensure that their fire safety measures are up to date and effective by regularly conducting fire safety audits, conducting fire drills and evacuation drills, and ensuring that all employees are trained in fire safety procedures.

If a business does not have proper fire protection, it can lead to several negative consequences. First and foremost, it increases the risk of a fire breaking out and causing damage to the business and potentially injuring or killing employees and customers. This can lead to costly damage and business interruptions, and in severe cases, the business may not be able to recover and may have to close permanently. In addition to this, lack of proper fire protection can also lead to serious legal issues, such as lawsuits and fines, as well as the potential for criminal charges if the lack of fire protection results in injury or death. Finally, many insurance companies will not cover damages from fires if proper fire protection was not in place. This means that the business owner will have to bear the full cost of any damage or losses resulting from a fire.