What is a “fire watch”?

A “fire watch” refers to a temporary measure employed to actively monitor an area for signs of fire, particularly in situations where fire hazards are present, and where the fire alarm system may not be operational, or when hot work activities increase the risk of fire. During a fire watch, individuals are designated to observe for any potential fire hazards, ensuring that immediate action can be taken if a fire occurs. This practice is crucial for safeguarding lives and property, especially in construction sites or during maintenance works where the risk of ignition is heightened.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of what a fire watch entails. A scheduled fire drill focuses on training and preparing individuals for evacuation during a fire but does not involve continuous monitoring of a specific area. Extinguishing fires quickly pertains to firefighting techniques rather than monitoring for fire risks. Similarly, a type of smoke detector is a safety device designed to alert occupants to the presence of smoke, rather than the process of monitoring for fire hazards. Thus, the concept of a fire watch is clearly defined by the role of vigilant observation for fire risks and responding appropriately to prevent fires from starting or spreading.