FIRE WATCH SERVICE IN PETWORTH DC

At Urgent Security & Fire Watch, we deliver reliable, around-the-clock fire watch services throughout Petworth and nearby Northwest D.C. communities. Our team protects multifamily buildings, local businesses, schools, and community properties when fire systems are out of service. Whether your property is near Upshur Street, Georgia Avenue, or Sherman Circle, we ensure full adherence to all NFPA and D.C. Fire Marshal regulations. For unmatched quality assurance, we actively monitor officer performance, audit all reports for compliance accuracy, and oversee every stage of service from start to finish. Count on Urgent Security & Fire Watch for dependable, compliant protection in Petworth.

Fire Watch Security Guards Available 24/7

Washington DC is unique compared to other jurisdictions in the DMV area. Only licensed security agencies can provide fire watch services in Washington DC. Washington Dc is also the only area that requires properties to submit a fire watch plan. Any time your building is placed on fire watch, a plan has to be submitted right away. The fire watch plan must be accompanies by a copy of your contract with the security company providing the fire watch security guards.
The fire watch doesn’t count as compliant until the plan and contract is reviewed and approved by DC Fire and EMS.
Skipping this step or turning it in late can lead to fines, so it’s best to get it done as soon as the fire watch begins.

This plan shall be emailed to Office of the Fire Marshal fems.fireprevention@dc.gov

Patrols Are Required Whenever the Building Is Occupied
• Fire watch coverage is required whenever the building is occupied.
• This includes business hours, after-hours activities, and times when employees, cleaning crews, or residents are on-site.
• Residential buildings are considered occupied 24/7.

Patrol Intervals
• Trained fire watch personnel must continuously monitor all affected areas.
• Patrols must occur every 30 to 60 minutes.
• Officers should remain within the impacted zones between rounds.
• The best fire watch companies patrol every 30 minutes for maximum coverage.

How to End a Fire Watch
• Fire watches in Washington, DC must remain active until officially cleared by the Fire Marshal.
• A Fire Inspector will typically visit to confirm the system is fully functional before approval.
• This rule applies to all cases — even self-reported fire watches.
• Once repairs are complete, contact the Fire Marshal’s Office to start the clearance process.
Fire Marshal Email: fems.fireprevention@dc.gov


Here is what is required to end fire watch

• Send an email to the fire marshal reporting the system is 100% back in service.
Fire Marshal Contact: fems.fireprevention@dc.gov
• Include documentation from the repair company proving the repairs were completed.
• Call to confirm receipt: 202-727-1614
• If after hours call: DC Fire and EMS Department Fire Liaison Officer at 202-373-3712
• Keep fire watch on site until the fire marshal approves termination.