Fire Watch Security Services in California

California’s wildfire season just might be the new normal. With 2018 being one of the deadliest and most destructive year for wildfires, it’s safe to say this won’t be the end of it. Fast-moving and aggressive wildfires are scorching California – killing at least nine people and destroying more than 1,000 homes and businesses.

Thousands of firefighters are currently battling the flames of 14 active fires, which are threatening communities from Redding in Northern California to Orange County in Southern California. The Mendocino Complex fire burning just north of wine country in Northern California became the states largest-ever fire. It has now burned 290,692 acres and is just 34% contained, according to California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

A firefighter walks along a containment line while battling a wildfire Saturday, July 28, 2018, in Redding, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

While some of these wildfires were caused by nature, some were man-made. Regardless of their cause though, the biggest reason why fires are hazardous is that they’re extremely difficult to contain and cause a great amount of damage. So far hundreds of structures have been destroyed–including homes–and thousands of more remain threatened. With a low percentage contained, the increasingly warm weather and dry conditions aren’t helping the thousands of acres that are being burned either.

Aside from the fact that there’s a fire that can cause your business or family’s life in danger, the chaos allows for more damage such as more break-ins, theft or even loss of life. That is why it’s important to have a fire watch security guard looking over your property for the prevention of anything dangerous during these times along with keeping you, your business or family alert at all times.

LAKEPORT, CA – JULY 31: A resident pushes personal belonging in a wheelbarrow as she evacuates ahead of the River Fire on July 31, 2018 in Lakeport, California. The River Fire has burned over 27,000 acres, destroyed seven homes and stands at only eight percent contained. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

WHAT IS A FIRE WATCH PATROL SERVICE?

A fire watch patrol is a specialty crew that has been trained to keep an eye on your property and watches for any signs of fire. Here are just some of the things a professional fire watch company does during patrol:

• Patrol floors every hour
• Ensure exits and walkways remain clear
• Identify and report any safety concerns
• Sound the alert in case of fire and contact the fire department
• Carry megaphones to alert building occupants in case of fire
• Carry flashlights to be used in low light situations
• Uses two-way radios to maintain communication with other officers on site
• Document all patrol activities in patrol log

Kambryn Brilz, 12, holds her dog Zoe in front of what remains of her burnt home after she was returned safely by a neighbor during the Carr fire in Redding, California on July 27, 2018. One firefighter has died and at least two others have been injured as wind-whipped flames tore through the region. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP) (Photo credit should read JOSH EDELSON/AFP/Getty Images)

WHEN IS FIRE WATCH GUARD NEEDED ASIDE FROM WILDFIRES?
Preventing a fire can mean avoiding loss of life, damage to property, and minimizing liability. It may be necessary to call upon the services of a fire watch guard in any of the following circumstances:

• Construction site – There are numerous fire hazards on construction sites, especially when the buildings contain wood framing. Many local governments require a fire watch guard on site continued until the construction is complete and a certificate of occupancy is in hand. Compliance also cuts down on fines and downtime.
• Business has a non-functioning alarm system – Whether a commercial property has not yet had a fire alarm system installed or it is being repaired or replaced, local ordinances may require a watch guard on the premises until the system is fulling functioning.
• Water supply is interrupted – If the property relies on a sprinkler system, disruption of the water supply will prevent its effectiveness. A fire watch guard may be necessary to protect the property and occupants until service is restored.
• Presence of extreme fire hazards – Activities such as storing chemicals can drastically increase the likelihood of a fire. A fire watch guard is trained to minimize danger in these situations.

PROFESSIONAL FIRE WATCH GUARDS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Secure Guard Security Services provides exceptional fire watch services to businesses in and around California. We hire off-duty professional firefighters, bringing years of experience to our fire watch guard services. Call us today at 888-908-7818 to speak with a security professional about how we can help you.

If you have been impacted by wildfires and are looking for resources, local assistance, services, housing, and additional important information, please visit the California Wildfires Statewide Recovery Resources site. Stay Safe!