Fire Watch 2026-07-18
When Is a Fire Watch Required in Ontario?
If your fire alarm or sprinkler system goes offline, the Ontario Fire Code can require a fire watch. Here's when it applies and what a fire watch guard actually does.
What triggers a fire watch requirement
Under the Ontario Fire Code, a fire watch is required whenever a building's fire alarm system, sprinkler system or other fire protection is impaired or out of service — during construction or renovation, system failures, or hot work like welding and cutting. Many insurers and municipal fire departments impose fire watch requirements on top of the Code minimums.
This applies to high-rise residential and commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, industrial plants and construction sites using temporary heating. If people occupy a building while its fire protection is down, someone must be watching for fire.
What a fire watch guard actually does
A fire watch guard continuously patrols all affected areas, watches for smoke and ignition sources, keeps exits and egress routes clear, maintains the detailed fire watch log that fire departments and insurers require, and initiates evacuation and 911 notification immediately if fire is detected.
A fire watch log with gaps — or an untrained staff member left to "keep an eye on things" — can void insurance coverage and expose owners to liability. Professional fire watch guards remove that risk.
Getting fire watch coverage fast
Fire watch needs rarely arrive with notice. 1st Nations Security operates a 24/7 dispatch centre that mobilizes fire watch guards across Ontario on short notice. Call +1 807-770-0243 any time, day or night.