What should be one of the key focuses of a fire watch?

Monitoring for signs of fire and reporting issues promptly is a crucial responsibility of a fire watch. The primary purpose of a fire watch is to ensure safety by observing the environment closely for any potential hazards, such as smoke, unusual odors, or signs of a fire. The fire watch personnel must remain vigilant and prepared to take immediate action if any fire-related issues arise. This proactive monitoring helps to prevent small incidents from escalating into larger emergencies, thereby safeguarding the lives of building occupants and protecting property.

While preventing unauthorized persons from entering is an important security measure, it is not the central role of a fire watch. Conducting daily fire drills is beneficial for preparedness, but it typically falls under the responsibilities of the safety or training department rather than the fire watch itself. Ignoring minor smoke contradicts the proactive nature of the fire watch's duties, as even small indications of smoke can signal a developing fire that requires immediate attention. Thus, the focus on monitoring and prompt reporting aligns perfectly with the overarching goal of fire safety during a fire watch.