Low autumn sun starts curtain fires

And your goldfish is in danger too

Every year at this time when the autumn sun is low in the sky Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service says it's called out to fires caused by the sun’s rays focussing through or onto glass, and then setting fire to nearby objects. Mirrored or glass items close to a window may re-focus the sun’s rays onto curtains, clothing, paper or furniture heating them up to a point that they catch fire.

Even your goldfish's at risk. A fish bowl near a window can magnify rays, heat up something combustible and lead to devastation. So too can a glass of water.

The fire service says the following advice could reduce the risk of fire:

·         Keep magnifying mirrors out of direct sunlight

·         Never put glass ornaments or paperweights on window sills

·         Never place glass ornaments or paperweights in direct sunlight

·         Make sure shaving or vanity mirrors are not left on window sills

·         Be aware of objects in your home such as shaving or vanity mirrors and glass ornaments or paperweights that may be exposed to direct sunlight

Paul Bray, Community Safety Protection manager for Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service said: ‘Many people do not realise the dangers of leaving glass objects too close to windows. Anything that can concentrate the sun’s ray should be moved away from the window to reduce the risk of fire breaking out, especially where the sun can shine directly into the room."

‘I have personally attended two fires caused by make-up mirrors, positioned on dressers, in bedrooms. One of these fires occurred in the early morning, with the sun shining through a south-easterly facing window, and the other occurred in the early evening, with the sun shining through a south westerly facing window. Both days were bright and sunny, but not hot. 

"If any of your rooms are penetrated by bright sunlight, especially at this time of year, carry out a check to make sure any glass objects cannot re-focus the sunlight to create a fire.

"Now would also be a good time to discuss your fire procedures with the rest of your family, fit or check your smoke alarm is working, and put into practice a simple routine of shutting internal doors, not only as part of a bedtime routine - but also whenever you leave your home unattended, as even a light internal door will prevent or reduce smoke and heat damage to a rooms contents."

The fire service offers free domestic fire advice, but has cut back on business advice. Home owners can call 0800 05 02 999. For any other fire safety advice, contact the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue helpline on: 01392 872288 or visit www.dsfire.gov.uk