A waking watch is a temporary fire safety measure used when a building has significant fire risks, such as unsafe cladding, inadequate compartmentation, or no building-wide alarm system.
It replaces the standard “Stay Put” approach with a “Simultaneous Evacuation” policy, ensuring occupants can be alerted and evacuated quickly in the event of a fire.
Waking watch duties typically include:
- Constant Patrolling: Trained personnel continuously patrol all floors and the building’s exterior to spot early signs of fire, smoke, or heat.
- Alarm and Communication: Wardens raise the alarm and alert all occupants to a fire incident.
- Evacuation Management: They guide residents during a simultaneous evacuation, ensuring everyone exits safely and orderly.
- Fire Service Liaison: Officers maintain direct communication with the fire service, providing critical information on arrival.
- Fire Hazard Checks: Patrols also check fire hazards and ensure fire doors remain closed to prevent the spread of flames.
The purpose of a waking watch is to maintain safety while permanent fire alarm systems and other building safety measures are installed. Once these measures are in place, the waking watch can be removed.
Replacing a Waking Watch with an Alarm System
Replacing a waking watch with a permanent, compliant fire alarm system:
- Reduces long-term costs compared to maintaining patrols 24/7.
- Provides more reliable and consistent fire detection.
- Ensures compliance with fire safety legislation.
- Improves safety for residents, staff, and visitors.
- Allows the building to return to a normal “Stay Put” strategy safely.
Who Can Apply
- Residential buildings in England that currently have a waking watch in place.
- Alarm installations that began on or after 25 May 2023.
- Systems that meet BS 5839-1 Category L5 standards, as recommended by fire safety guidance.
Deadlines
The deadline to apply is March 2026, but delaying could put both the funding and the safety of the premises at risk. Acting early ensures the building benefits from the fund while remaining fully compliant with fire safety law.
Midland Fire Services
Midland fire specializes in helping landlords, housing providers, and businesses upgrade their fire alarm systems to meet the latest standards. From design and installation to ongoing maintenance, they provide support to make sure the building is safe, compliant, and ready for the future.
They can also guide users through the funding application, helping them navigate requirements and maximize the chance of success.