In the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, fire safety in high-rise buildings became a critical concern across the UK. EMFS Group, pioneers in the field, were the first to establish the Waking Watch service, playing a vital role in safeguarding lives. But what exactly is Waking Watch, and why is it so crucial?
What Is Waking Watch?
Waking Watch is a proactive fire safety measure designed to protect residents in buildings identified as high-risk due to flammable cladding or other fire safety deficiencies. The service involves trained personnel, often in teams, who monitor buildings 24/7 for signs of fire. Their primary role is to ensure the immediate evacuation of residents if a fire breaks out, providing a crucial early warning that can save lives.
The Origins of Waking Watch
EMFS Group was instrumental in creating and proving the concept of Waking Watch. When The Kensington & Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation first approached us, we understood the gravity of the situation and the need for a reliable, round-the-clock fire safety solution. We worked closely with local fire authorities to develop a service that met their stringent requirements, learning their language, terminology, and focus areas to ensure our teams were fully aligned with their protocols.
Our expertise in fire safety and emergency response allowed us to design a service that quickly became the gold standard for protecting residents in high-risk buildings. Today, we continue to lead the industry, providing Waking Watch services that are both effective and essential.
The Importance of Trained Firefighters in Waking Watch
At EMFS Group, we take fire safety seriously, which is why we employ trained firefighters in our Waking Watch teams. Even our fire wardens are always accompanied by a professional firefighter, ensuring that every aspect of fire risk is expertly managed.
Trained firefighters bring invaluable knowledge and experience to Waking Watch. Their ability to quickly assess situations, identify potential hazards, and take immediate action is crucial in preventing fires from escalating. Their presence ensures that any necessary evacuation is carried out with precision and efficiency, minimising risks and protecting lives.
The expertise of trained professionals can make all the difference in an emergency, providing peace of mind to residents and property managers alike. Their deep understanding of fire behaviour, coupled with their ability to work seamlessly with emergency services, ensures that our Waking Watch teams are not just a deterrent but an active force in fire safety.
How Waking Watch Saves Lives
The effectiveness of Waking Watch lies in its simplicity and immediacy. With firefighters on alert 24 hours a day, our teams are trained to spot potential fire hazards and act immediately. This rapid response is critical in high-rise buildings where fires can spread quickly and evacuation routes may become compromised.
Waking Watch personnel are more than just observers; they are active participants in fire safety, conducting regular patrols, identifying risks, and ensuring that evacuation plans are clear and actionable. Their presence provides peace of mind to residents and serves as a vital link between the building and emergency services.
Our Commitment to Fire Safety
At EMFS Group, we are deeply committed to fire safety. Our decades of experience in the industry, combined with our pioneering role in developing Waking Watch, give us unparalleled expertise. We understand the complexities of fire safety in tower blocks, and our services are designed to meet the highest standards of protection.
We also recognise the importance of working closely with fire authorities. Our teams are trained to liaise effectively with firefighters, ensuring that any emergency response is swift, coordinated, and effective. This collaboration is key to the success of Waking Watch and has proven invaluable in protecting lives.
Discussing Waking Watch for Your Facility
If you represent a council, housing association, or property management company and are interested in discussing how our Waking Watch services can enhance fire safety within your facilities, we would love to hear from you. Our experienced team is ready to work with you to develop a bespoke fire safety solution tailored to your needs.
Get in touch with us today to explore how EMFS Group can help protect your residents and properties.
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