Sprinklers save Redmond race safety gear maker

A southeast Redmond business that makes safety gear for racers and track crews had one key piece of safety gear that saved it from serious fire damage early Thursday – a sprinkler system, officials said.

Redmond Fire & Rescue crews responded shortly before 3 a.m. to reported commercial structure fire at the business at 975 SE First Street, said Fire Marshal Traci Cooper.

Arriving crews found smoke in the structure but that a small fire had been put out by the building’s sprinkler system, Cooper said.

The fire apparently was caused by a light fixture that malfunctioned in the warehouse area, she said.

Cooper said the sprinkler system “did its job,” as the business sustained minimal damage, compared to what it could have been without it.

Losses to building and contents were estimated at $2,500. No injuries were reported.

The business, Pyrotect, makes safety gear, including helmets and suits for racers, race crews and track safety personnel, according to its Website, which said it’s been in business since 1972.