Fire investigators have warned the public to be careful with reflective items during the hot weather after responding to a fire caused by a magnifying glass.
The object was the unexpected culprit for the accidental blaze in Newcastle city centre after being left on a window sill at a commercial property. The initial call had come into the service’s Fire Control at 10.03am on Saturday, June 18 and the first of three appliances were on scene in just five minutes.
Upon arrival, firefighters from Newcastle Central and Byker Community Fire Stations found a small fire and quickly extinguished it before it could spread.
Firefighters left the scene after nine minutes of assessing and dealing with the city centre fire. Thankfully nobody was injured.
Sunlight had reflected off the magnifying glass and then concentrated on two cardboard boxes containing a set of plastic scales. Steven Walker, Watch Manager for Red Watch at Newcastle Central Community Fire Station, has said the fire provided a timely warning to the public.
He said: “People can sometimes forget the dangers that can be present on a hot summer’s day. In this instance, it was fortunate that our firefighters were quick on to the scene after building staff were alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm.
“Our advice to all business premises and residential properties would be for any magnifying glasses, or mirrors, to be stowed away from direct sunlight. Alternatively, lower window blinds if the room is out of use, particularly during summer periods when the risk is greater.
“The sun can be a very dangerous commodity that catches people unaware when it comes down to its potential for starting fires. If it wasn’t for the building’s smoke alarms our crews may not have been on scene as quickly as they were.
“So it is also a timely reminder to make sure you have a working alarm fitted. If you don’t then please take action now.”
If you have any questions, contact the Fire Safety Team at Fire.Safety@twfire.gov.uk
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