Firewatch Services: Safety & Security for Your Property
In the dynamic landscape of property development and management, ensuring fire safety is paramount. Firewatch services play a critical role in safeguarding construction sites, residential complexes, and commercial properties. This is crucial when fire suppression systems are compromised or unavailable.
Understanding Firewatch Requirements in Oregon
Firewatch services are mandated under specific circumstances to prevent potential fire hazards. In Portland, the FIR-1.04 Fire Watch Policy outlines the conditions necessitating a firewatch:
- Construction Sites: Any framed structure of four stories or more without an operational fire suppression system must implement a firewatch until the system is fully functional.
- Existing Occupied Properties: If a required fire protection system becomes inoperative or indicates a “trouble” condition, property owners are responsible for restoring the system promptly. If immediate restoration isn’t feasible, a firewatch must be established to maintain safety.
Additionally, during fire season, operators using power-driven machinery near forest districts must provide firewatch services.This involves having at least one individual on duty during specified times to monitor and address potential fire hazards.
However, firewatch needs often exceed legal requirements. For example, property managers, business owners, and construction teams may request emergency firewatch coverage due to insurance requirements, liability concerns, or company policy—even when not explicitly mandated by the city.
Firewatch in Non-Mandated Situations: A Real-World Example
Beyond mandated firewatch, emergency fire safety coverage is valuable in many situations. For example, during a severe cold snap, a client reached out to us with only 10 hours’ notice. They requested emergency onsite firewatch coverage. They proactively turned off their fire sprinkler system due to past issues with pipes leaking in freezing temperatures. Although this was not a city-mandated firewatch situation, it was critical for the property’s safety and compliance with their internal policies. NEI provided firewatch coverage, ensuring the building remained secure and monitored while the fire system was intentionally offline.
The Role of Professional Firewatch Services
Professional firewatch services through Northwest Enforcement offers key advantages:
- Expertise and Training: Officers are trained to identify fire hazards, follow emergency protocols, and coordinate with fire departments for quick responses.
- Comprehensive Security Measures: Officers can manage access control, especially crucial if electronic systems are affected due to electrical issues. Their presence provides reassurance to tenants and deters unauthorized access.
- Regulatory Compliance: Officers ensure compliance with fire codes, maintain patrol logs, and provide records for fire authority review.
Adhering to firewatch requirements is not only a legal obligation but also a critical component of property safety and risk management. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, increased liability, and, most importantly, endanger lives and property.
Why Choose Northwest Enforcement?
By partnering with Northwest Enforcement, property owners and managers can ensure:
- 24/7 Local Dispatch: Our team is always available, providing immediate support when you need it.
- Proprietary Reporting Software: We offer real-time reporting through our SRT software.
- Responsive Account Management: Our dedicated team, familiar with your site and officers, promptly addresses any issues, tailoring our approach to your specific needs.
- Proactive Approach: Our highly trained team swiftly responds to operational changes and unforeseen challenges, maintaining reliable and adaptable security services.
- Highly Trained Officers: We invest in comprehensive training and leadership development for our team.
Northwest Enforcement stands ready to provide expert firewatch solutions, ensuring compliance with fire codes and contributing to the overall safety and security of our communities. With over 20 years of experience, NEI is the ideal partner for your firewatch coverage.
Contact us today to learn more about our firewatch services and how we can assist in safeguarding your property.
