Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service says sunlight and glassware don’t mix where fire safety is concerned.
It follows two serious fires in Merseyside caused by sunlight reflecting off mirrors during recent dazzling weather.
Hereford and Worcester Fire & Rescue Service is reminding people not to leave mirrors or glassware in positions where they can magnify the sun’s rays onto combustible material.
Both incidents occurred in the middle of the day, between 2pm and 2.30pm, and were started by reflected light from the sun, which directed rays from magnifying mirrors onto combustible items.
In May last year, local fire crews deployed to a similar incident in a Clifton Upon Teme house when a mirror is believed to have focused the sun's rays on to an extension lead, causing a fire.
Officers needed breathing apparatus to enter the property and extinguish the fire.
Emma Roberts, HWFRS Head of Prevention, said: “This is a more frequent occurrence than people might expect. I’d encourage residents to take a look around your home and see what might cause a fire like this.
“If you have magnifying mirrors or other items such as glass ornaments or paperweights, please keep them out of direct sunlight or where the sun can reflect from them onto other items.
“Never leave shaving or vanity mirrors on windowsills, and keep aerosols or any other flammable items out of direct sunlight as well.
“Above all, fit working smoke alarms on every floor and test them every week. Don’t ignore a smoke alarm going off, even if it isn’t yours. Whether in your property or a neighbour’s, check it out and call 999 immediately if you suspect a fire.
“Those vital few seconds could help save a life. Don’t try to enter the property yourself if you think there is a fire – Get out, Stay out and Call 999.
“For fire safety advice, or if you do not have working smoke alarms in your home, please call us on between 09:00 and 17:00 on 0800 032 1155 to arrange a Home Fire Safety Visit.”
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