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Introduction: What is FireWatch Security?

FireWatch security is a specialized safety service designed to protect people, property, and businesses from fire hazards when traditional fire prevention systems (like sprinklers or alarms) are not working or are temporarily unavailable. In Alberta, FireWatch services are not only essential for construction sites, industrial facilities, and oil & gas operations, but also a legal requirement in many situations where fire risks exist.

At Alberta Prime Security, our trained FireWatch guards act as dedicated fire monitors, patrolling at-risk areas, spotting hazards early, and ensuring that hot work operations (such as welding, grinding, or cutting) are conducted safely. They provide real-time observation, immediate reporting, and fast response, giving property owners peace of mind.

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Why is FireWatch Security Helpful?

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1. Protects Life and Property

The most obvious benefit of FireWatch is the prevention of fires that could cause injury, death, or massive property loss. Even a small flame can escalate into a disaster within minutes. FireWatch guards act as the first line of defense, reducing the risk of devastating outcomes.

2. Ensures Compliance with Fire Codes

Alberta’s Fire Code requires FireWatch coverage in situations where fire suppression systems are out of service, or during high-risk work like welding or roofing. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, insurance issues, or liability claims. Having certified FireWatch security ensures your business stays compliant.

3. Reduces Liability for Business Owners

If a fire breaks out and you did not have proper FireWatch coverage in place, you may be held liable for damages. By hiring professional FireWatch guards, you transfer risk and demonstrate due diligence, protecting your company legally and financially.

4. Maintains Business Continuity

Unexpected fires can cause shutdowns, lost contracts, and expensive repairs. With FireWatch security in place, risks are minimized, helping your project or facility remain on schedule without costly interruptions.

5. Provides 24/7 Monitoring When Needed

Unlike alarms, which only activate after a fire starts, FireWatch guards provide constant human presence, monitoring for sparks, smoke, or unsafe practices—especially during nights, weekends, or system downtime.

Purpose of FireWatch Security

The purpose of FireWatch security can be summarized in three key pillars: Prevention, Compliance, and Response.

• Prevention – Identify hazards before they escalate. Guards check for combustible materials, unsafe hot work practices, or malfunctioning equipment.

• Compliance – Ensure all requirements under the Alberta Fire Code and Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) are met. FireWatch is often mandatory during system outages or hot work.

• Response – If fire or smoke is detected, guards immediately activate emergency procedures, call fire services, and evacuate staff to safety.

In short, FireWatch security exists to protect people, reduce risks, and safeguard businesses from avoidable fire-related disasters.

 

Why is FireWatch Security Important in Alberta?

Alberta’s industries—construction, oil & gas, logistics, manufacturing, and commercial properties—carry unique fire risks. For example:

• Construction Sites – Welding, cutting, and roofing create sparks that can ignite wood, insulation, or chemicals.

• Oil & Gas Facilities – Flammable liquids and gases make FireWatch absolutely critical.

• Warehouses & Logistics Yards – Stacked goods, packaging, and fuel storage increase fire load.

• Hotels, Apartments, and Public Buildings – When sprinklers or alarms are under maintenance, FireWatch is required to maintain occupancy safety.

Without FireWatch, companies face major risks: fire damage, insurance claim denials, government penalties, and reputational harm.

 

FireWatch Services by Alberta Prime Security

At Alberta Prime Security, we provide licensed, trained, and reliable FireWatch guards across Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, and throughout Alberta. Our services include:

• 🔥 Hot Work FireWatch – Monitoring welding, cutting, or grinding operations.

• 🏗️ Construction Site FireWatch – Preventing fire during risky building stages.

• 🏭 Industrial FireWatch – Securing oil & gas, factories, and plants.

• 🏢 Commercial FireWatch – Protecting offices, hotels, and retail spaces during fire system outages.

• 🌙 Overnight & 24/7 Coverage – Maintaining safety during downtime.

Our guards are trained to spot hazards, patrol strategically, log inspections, and coordinate with local fire departments when necessary.