Fire chiefs warning to reflect on the fire risk of mirrors

Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) are reminding people to not leave mirrors or glassware in positions where they can magnify the sun’s rays onto combustible materials.

The warning of the fire risk of mirrors, follows two serious incidents in Merseyside caused by just this. Even during colder months, the sun’s rays can be very strong and at a lower angle, it makes the rays the perfect height to hit mirrors or glass ornaments and magnify.

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.

“Never leave shaving or vanity mirrors on windowsills and keep aerosols or any other flammable items out of direct sunlight as well.”

Keep protected with FireAngel

If you’re concerned about the risk of sunlight causing a fire in your home this winter, make sure you’re taking sensible steps to stay safe indoors:

• Do not leave vanity mirrors on windowsills or in direct sunlight
• Keep aerosols or other flammable items out of direct sunlight
• Ensure there are working smoke alarms installed in your home and test regularly to alert you as soon as possible should a fire occur

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