How a Waking Watch Supports Effective Evacuation Management

Following the Grenfell Tower disaster in 2017, significant pressure has been placed on property owners to enhance the fire safety of high-rise residential buildings—particularly those with unsafe cladding or similar hazards. Despite the passage of time, many buildings still fall short of meeting essential safety standards.

In London alone, more than 1,000 residential buildings continue to have unresolved fire safety issues. It is crucial for those in charge—commonly referred to as "responsible persons"—to take proactive steps by initiating remediation work and installing effective fire safety systems. Until long-term solutions are in place, interim measures such as a Waking Watch can help reduce immediate risks.

Understanding Waking Watch

A Waking Watch involves trained personnel, typically fire marshals, conducting continuous patrols of a building to monitor for fire hazards. These professionals are tasked with spotting danger early, raising the alarm if a fire breaks out, and overseeing a safe evacuation. This practice has become more common in residential high-rises since 2017, particularly in buildings where serious fire risks have been identified.

It's essential to recognize that Waking Watch services are intended as a short-term safety strategy. They are especially useful in cases where fire detection systems are not fully functional or when hazardous cladding is being removed or replaced.

How a Waking Watch Operates

In the event of a fire, Waking Watch marshals respond immediately to assess the situation. If needed, they will contact emergency services and guide a building-wide evacuation. The goal is to ensure all residents can exit the building within 10 to 15 minutes, which requires having a sufficient number of wardens on-site at all times.

Government Guidance on Waking Watch Protocols

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) provides Simultaneous Evacuation Guidance, which outlines expectations for implementing a Waking Watch. Key recommendations include:

• Clearly communicating any changes in evacuation procedures to residents.
• Explaining why a Waking Watch has been introduced and what it entails.
• Treating the Waking Watch as a short-term solution while working toward permanent safety improvements.
• Replacing Waking Watch services with automated fire detection systems when delays in remediation occur.

When Is a Waking Watch Needed?

Waking Watch services are typically implemented in residential buildings facing serious fire risks—such as flammable cladding or failing alarm systems—that necessitate a change in evacuation plans.

Previously, many high-rises operated under a “stay put” policy, where only occupants of the affected unit needed to evacuate during a fire. However, in buildings with materials that enable rapid fire spread, this approach can be dangerous. In such cases, a “simultaneous evacuation” strategy is adopted, requiring all occupants to leave the building immediately when a fire is detected.

A Waking Watch may also be required temporarily if the fire alarm system fails or is being upgraded.

Benefits of Using a Waking Watch

• Enhanced Protection: Having trained personnel on-site around the clock offers reassurance to residents and protects lives and property during fire-related emergencies.
• Professional Expertise: Fire marshals are experienced in handling high-pressure situations and are trained to manage orderly evacuations.
• Crisis Response: If a fire alarm system malfunctions unexpectedly, Waking Watch staff can fill the gap and maintain safety until repairs are completed.
• Custom Solutions: Specialists can conduct risk assessments and create bespoke fire safety plans tailored to the specific needs of each building and its residents.

What to Expect from a Quality Waking Watch Provider

The most effective Waking Watch teams are staffed by individuals with firefighting backgrounds or extensive fire safety training. These professionals are equipped to act quickly and stay composed under pressure.

At Fire Watch Services we have a strong commitment to safety, professionalism, and thorough planning. Competent wardens should demonstrate high alertness and an in-depth understanding of evacuation procedures.

As a top-tier provider, we don’t just offer fire watch personnel—we also support broader fire safety strategies to help ensure the building is safe while long-term solutions are implemented.

Waking Watch Solutions from Fire Watch Services

At Fire Watch Services, we offer Waking Watch coverage to help mitigate immediate fire risks in high-rise buildings. While permanent safety upgrades are essential, Waking Watch services play a critical role in maintaining occupant safety in the short term.

If you’re considering a Waking Watch for your property or need advice on the best course of action, our team is here to help.