At Urgent Security & Fire Watch, we deliver consistent fire watch coverage around the clock for Shaw and Northwest D.C. Our team monitors residential buildings, restaurants, retail establishments, and mixed-use properties when fire detection systems are temporarily offline. From 7th Street to Florida Avenue and the Shaw-Howard University Metro area, we guarantee full adherence to NFPA protocols and D.C. Fire Marshal standards.
• 24/7 fire watch availability in Shaw, DC, including after hours and weekends.
• GPS and manual logs combine for detailed, dependable service supervision.
• Ready to respond to short-term and emergency fire watch needs quickly and effectively.
We are the reliable fire watch company you have been looking for.
Fire Watch Security Guards Available 24/7
We Specialize in Fire Watch and Short Term Security
We're designed for rapid response. We dispatch trained security personnel to your Shaw property, provide specific job directions, and supervise their work to guarantee you receive proper coverage. Your account manager handles scheduling logistics, reviews patrol execution, and maintains contact with the fire marshal so you can concentrate on system restoration.
Our management team has overseen over
500 fire watch projects
We know Shaw. Our team delivers fire watch services suited to this area's rich history and growing energy, ensuring compliance while honoring the community's character.
Enterprise Level Service and Oversight for Short Term Fire Watch Projects
Getting officers on site
We arrange dispatch so officers arrive ready to work. Each officer gets a full briefing about your location and requirements.
Regulations & Compliance
We use our experience to coordinate your project ensuring your fire watch project complies with the fire watch regulations.
Ensuring quality service
We track officer performance and address any concerns right away.
We handle every step to make sure you get reliable fire watch service
Rudo and his team responded quickly and maintained clear communication throughout our collaboration. I was very impressed by how organized and professional each interaction was. I will definitely be recommending this company to other communities!
Amy Parada★★★★★
Professional fire watch services at your location. Fast!
enterprise level support & oversight for short term fire watch projects
01
Clear Communication
Officers receive a detailed briefing about your property and your needs. This helps avoid confusion and keeps everything on track.
02
Consistent Patrols
We monitor patrols activity to spot any issues early. This keeps your property safe and secure.
03
Verified On-Site Presence
GPS check-ins confirm that officers are present and working as scheduled. You never have to worry about missed shifts or errors in billing.
04
Effortless Compliance
We keep detailed patrol reports that meet all Arlington fire watch rules. These records are always ready for fire marshal review.
Need it schedule service for a future date?
Shaw fire watch rules are different than VA and MD
Washington DC maintains unique requirements compared to other jurisdictions in the DMV. Fire watch services in Washington DC can only come from licensed security agencies. Washington DC is the sole jurisdiction mandating properties to file a fire watch plan. Whenever your building enters fire watch, a plan has to be submitted immediately. The fire watch plan must be accompanied by a copy of your contract with the security company providing the fire watch guards.
The fire watch isn't recognized as compliant until the plan and contract go through review and get approved by DC Fire and EMS. Missing this step or turning it in late can trigger penalties, so it's critical to complete it when fire watch starts.
This plan shall be emailed to Office of the Fire Marshal fems.fireprevention@dc.gov
• One fire watch security guard for every two floors
• One officer positioned at the primary entrance, alarm panel station, or any central position with a landline telephone
• One additional officer for every six fire watch personnel to manage breaks and shift changes
• A fire watch must always maintain no fewer than two officers working at all times, never only one
Patrols Must Be in Place During Occupied Times
• Fire watch coverage must be in place whenever the building has occupants.
• This covers business hours, evening programs, and periods when staff, maintenance workers, or tenants are inside.
• Residential buildings are regarded as occupied continuously.
Patrol Mandates
• Qualified fire watch staff must continually monitor all affected sections.
• Patrols need to take place every 30 to 60 minutes.
• Officers should stay positioned within the impacted areas between rounds.
• Leading fire watch operations patrol every 30 minutes for peak protection.
How to Terminate a Fire Watch
• Fire watches in Washington, DC must stay in effect until officially authorized by the Fire Marshal.
• A Fire Inspector will generally conduct a check to ensure the system functions fully before clearance.
• This guideline covers all instances — even self-declared fire watches.
• After fixes are complete, contact the Fire Marshal's Office to begin the approval process.
Fire Marshal Email: fems.fireprevention@dc.gov
Here is what is needed 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
• Attach documentation from the repair company validating the work was finished.
• 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 staff on site until the fire marshal authorizes termination.
Want more in-depth info about your local fire watch requirements?
Visit our DMV Area Fire Watch Guide
We know what it takes to comply with the Fire Marshals Requirements.
We Stay Involved From Start to Finish
We stay involved to help make sure officers are doing their job, so you do not have to rely on hope.
On-site GPS check-ins
Officers must be physically present at your location to clock in
Pre-shift orientations
Officers are briefed on your property details and fire marshal requirements
Continuous activity oversight
Patrol logs and digital tools track officer movements and actions
Are you considering using your own staff for fire watch?
Here is a video that will help you weigh your options.
We know what it takes to comply with the Fire Marshals Requirements.
How We Handle Challenges
One Hourly Rate. No Extra Charges
You pay one flat hourly rate that covers everything. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges. The security company pays us a small part of their hourly rate for management and quality control. You pay the same rate you would if you hired the security company without us.
Shaw DC Security Guard Services FAQ
When is fire watch required?
Fire watch in Shaw, DC triggered by impaired fire protection systems (alarms, sprinklers, standpipes, suppression) or construction/hot work per NFPA 1 §16.11, DC FEMS Fire Marshal enforcement.
How often do fire watch patrols occur?
Patrols: 30 min occupied, 1 hour unoccupied buildings; complete coverage every cycle following FEMS guidelines.
What equipment must fire watch guards carry?
Guards must carry two-way radios/cell phones for 911 calls, flashlights, refglective vests, megaphone and logbooks as required by DC Fire Code.
How does Urgent Security & Fire Watch ensure complete fire watch oversight?
Shaw, DC locations benefit from Urgent Security & Fire Watch’s GPS-monitored patrols, strict timing, and thorough digital fire watch records.
Are your security services available after hours and weekends?
In Shaw, DC, Urgent Security & Fire Watch maintains continuous fire watch readiness, covering nights, weekends, and holiday periods.
What fire watch documentation will I require?
You'll need patrol interval records, guard assignments, coverage proofs, incident notes. Shaw, DC properties get Urgent Security & Fire Watch's comprehensive fire watch logs.
How quickly can fire watch guards reach my location?
Shaw, DC locations rely on Urgent Security & Fire Watch for organized fire watch logs that show patrol timing, route coverage, and any hazards reported to management or 911.
what are the penalties for non-compliant fire watch?
Non-adherence to fire watch in DC triggers FEMS penalties including fines up to $10,000 or greater, work suspension orders, and mandated building evacuations or shutdowns.
How do I schedule fire watch services immediately?
Reach Urgent Security & Fire Watch 24/7 line, share location details for instant compliant coverage.
How do I know when I have to have fire watch?
Required when outages exceed 4 hours or dangers arise; confirm with FEMS at 202-673-3333.
Do I have to notify the fire marshal if my alarm is not functioning?
Yes, notify FEMS hotline 202-673-3333 right away when alarm stops working.
How long does my system need to be out of service before I need to have fire watch?
Fire watch required after 4 hours total outage in 24-hour cycle per DC code.
Do I have to get permission to terminate fire watch?
Yes, written approval from FEMS Fire Marshal required before fire watch cessation.
What’s the process for ending fire watch?
Send repair documents to FEMS for approval, complete inspection, obtain written termination clearance.
Can I use my own staff for a fire watch?
Yes, own staff temporarily while fire watch officers establish coverage.
OUR Fire watch SERVICE AREAS
List of Services
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Montgomery County Fire WatchList Item 1
Our Montgomery County fire watch team responds 24/7 across Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, and Germantown. Urgent Security & Fire Watch provides trained officers for apartments, construction sites, and businesses, ensuring fire code compliance and reliable coverage when systems fail.
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PG County Fire Watch ServicesList Item 2
Our PG County fire watch officers serve Bowie, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, College Park and beyond. Urgent Security & Fire Watch delivers fast, compliant fire watch protection for residential, commercial, and public properties whenever alarms are down or repairs are in progress.
List of Services
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Alexandria, VA Fire Watch
When fire alarms or sprinklers malfunction, Urgent Security & Fire Watch deploys certified officers across Old Town, Del Ray, and every other area in Alexandra, VA. Our 24/7 fire watch services keep businesses, hotels, and residential buildings safe and compliant. Trust our local team for rapid response and reliable protection throughout Alexandria, VA.
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Arlington County, VA Fire WatchList Item 2
Our Arlington County fire watch officers protect properties across Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, and other areas across Arlington County, VA. Urgent Security & Fire Watch provides round-the-clock coverage for residential and commercial properties. We ensure quick deployment and fire code compliance throughout Arlington, VA.
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Fairfax County, VA Fire WatchList Item 1
Urgent Security & Fire Watch provides 24/7 fire watch protection across Fairfax County, including Reston, Tysons, Herndon, Fairfax City and more. Our trained officers respond fast when alarms fail or systems are down, delivering compliant, reliable coverage for construction sites, apartments, and businesses throughout Northern Virginia.
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Falls Church, VA Fire Watch Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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Fairfax City, VA Fire Watch Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
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Prince William County Fire WatchList Item 4
When alarms or sprinklers go offline, our Prince William County fire watch team responds immediately. Urgent Security & Fire Watch serves Manassas, Woodbridge, Dumfries, and other areas across Prince William County, VA. We provide fire watch officers patrolling commercial and residential properties. Service is available 24/7.