In the year 2017, the tragic incident of the Grenfell Tower fire underscored a significant safety issue pertaining to numerous high-rise structures throughout the United Kingdom. Many of these buildings were equipped with highly hazardous exterior cladding, necessitating the implementation of additional fire safety measures.

In response to these findings, the introduction of the Waking Watch service became imperative, with the aim of transitioning from the prevailing ‘stay put’ guidance provided to residents in the event of a fire to a temporary strategy involving simultaneous evacuation.

Waking Watch services entail the deployment of fire marshal officers who have undergone rigorous training to conduct continuous surveillance of high-rise buildings, around the clock. Their duties encompass vigilant monitoring for any indications of a potential fire and, when necessary, providing assistance during the evacuation process.