On Tuesday afternoon, a fire in Lakenheath, Southgate, North London, necessitated the response of 40 firefighters, who battled the blaze that destroyed two garden sheds and significantly damaged the rear of a neighbouring property. The London Fire Brigade has identified the likely cause of the fire as sunlight reflecting off curved glass, which then ignited flammable materials.
This incident has prompted the London Fire Brigade to issue a warning to UK households about the dangers posed by reflective objects such as mirrors, crystals, and glass ornaments. These items, when placed in direct sunlight, can create a magnifying effect that may lead to fires regardless of the time of year or weather conditions.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade stressed the ongoing risk, stating: "Fires caused by refracted sunlight can happen all year round and can be common." They advised residents to ensure that reflective items are kept out of direct sunlight at all times to prevent similar hazards.
The warning comes amid a rising number of such fires. Last year, Merseyside Fire Service issued a similar caution following a significant fire affecting two homes, which was attributed to sunlight reflecting from mirrors. Mark Thomas, Prevention Group Manager, highlighted the increasing frequency of these incidents and the dangers they pose. Speaking to the Express, he said: "Fires caused in this way are becoming more and more apparent. Thankfully no one has been seriously injured as a result of these fires, but the damage caused will have a lasting impact on those involved."
He further explained the mechanism behind such fires: "Both of these fires were started by the reflected light from the sun, which directed rays from magnifying mirrors onto combustible items. Low sun at this time of year and direct sunlight on mirrors can cause serious problems. Even during cold spells, the sun's rays can be very strong particularly if they are magnified by glass ornaments and mirrors."
Thomas emphasised the importance of vigilance in homes, urging residents: "Take a look around your home - if you have magnifying mirrors or other items such as glass ornaments or paperweights, please make sure they are kept out of direct sunlight or where the sun can reflect from them onto other items. Never leave shaving or vanity mirrors on windowsills – this is a recipe for disaster. It's also really important to keep aerosols or any other flammable items out of direct sunlight too."
In response to these risks, the London Fire Brigade has issued three key safety tips for households:
- Keep reflective items such as mirrors, crystals or glass objects away from sunny windowsills and flammable materials.
- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed in every room where a fire could start, except in kitchens or bathrooms where heat alarms are more appropriate.
- In case of fire, close the door on the blaze, exit the premises, stay out, and call 999.
These precautions aim to mitigate the risk of fires ignited by concentrated sunlight reflections, safeguarding properties and residents from potential harm.
Source: Noah Wire Services