Fire Watch in California: When You Need It and What It Involves
When the fire alarm or sprinkler system goes down, the fire department can require a fire watch. What that means and how to set it up fast.
By the APS Security team · Licensed BSIS PPO #PP0121407 · Updated 2026-10-01
What is a fire watch?
A fire watch is a trained person (or people) who walk a building on a regular schedule looking for fire, smoke and hazards when the fire alarm or sprinkler system is not working. The California Fire Code lets the fire code official require a fire watch when these systems are impaired, and it is also common during hot work such as welding and cutting.
When you may need one
Typical situations include a fire alarm or sprinkler system that is down for repair, construction or renovation that disables systems, hot work on a job site, and large events. The local fire department or fire marshal decides what is required, so always follow their instructions.
What a fire watch guard does
The fire watch officer patrols every area on a set schedule, keeps a written fire watch log, watches for hazards, knows where extinguishers and exits are, and calls 911 and helps people get out if there is a fire. APS fire watch officers also send hourly photo reports so you have a clear record for the fire marshal.
Getting coverage fast
Fire watch usually has to start right away. APS Security can often place fire watch guards the same day in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Call (833) 388-0071.
Need security in Southern California?
APS Security provides licensed armed and unarmed guards, mobile patrol and fire watch across LA, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, with hourly photo reports.