The overlooked fire risks Pye-Barker says most homes still face
Iain Hoey
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Pye-Barker shares safety tips during Fire Prevention Week
Pye-Barker Fire & Safety has shared key fire prevention guidance for businesses and homeowners during National Fire Prevention Week, taking place from 5–11 October 2025 in the United States.
The company said its advice focuses on education, equipment maintenance and consistent safety habits as the foundations of prevention.
Bart Proctor, Chief Executive Officer of Pye-Barker, said: “Fire prevention isn’t just about having the right equipment—it’s about creating habits and awareness that protect lives and property.
“It also allows families and businesses to take proactive steps to prevent fires and prepare for emergencies, which can make all the difference when seconds count.”
Equipment maintenance and installation guidance
Pye-Barker advised that smoke alarms should be tested monthly and have their batteries replaced at least once a year.
It added that alarms should be installed on every level of a building, with dual-sensor monitors recommended for broader detection.
The company also advised installing carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances.
For homes, Pye-Barker cited National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidance recommending multi-purpose ABC fire extinguishers for ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids and electrical fires.
Extinguishers should be placed on each floor, particularly in kitchens and near sleeping areas.
For businesses, extinguisher types should be selected based on the risks present, such as Class K extinguishers for commercial kitchens and Class D extinguishers for facilities handling combustible metals.
The company added that both extinguishers and sprinkler systems should be regularly tested and inspected.
Everyday practices to reduce common fire hazards
Pye-Barker recommended that space heaters be kept at least three feet away from furniture, curtains and other combustible materials.
It warned against overloading outlets or power strips and advised regular cleaning of dryer vents to prevent lint buildup.
The company also reminded households and workplaces to always extinguish candles when leaving a room.
According to Pye-Barker, everyday awareness and consistency in safety practices are essential to reducing the likelihood of accidental fires.
Training and awareness for fire prevention
Pye-Barker said human error accounts for around 80% of workplace fires, making training and awareness critical components of prevention strategies.
The company explained that it can assist businesses in assessing their fire risks and recommending appropriate equipment and training.
It added that regular reviews of fire protection systems, staff preparedness and emergency procedures can help minimise the effects of human error.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The guidance from Pye-Barker Fire & Safety offers practical insight for building managers, fire safety officers and facility supervisors responsible for fire protection systems and staff training.
Its recommendations on smoke and carbon monoxide alarm placement, extinguisher selection and system testing provide clear examples of NFPA-aligned preventive measures applicable across residential and commercial settings.
The emphasis on human error as a leading cause of workplace fires highlights the continued need for staff training and inspection programmes.
By framing safety as a habit-based process rather than solely equipment-driven, the company’s approach reinforces how consistent maintenance, awareness and planning can reduce fire risk across diverse environments.