Firefighters issued a stark warning over a common windowsill mistake that could cause a house fire.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service says two serious house fires occurred in the space of six days due to the same issue.
A spokesperson for the emergency service said the cause of both fires was glass or reflective items which were placed on windowsills, leaving sunlight to reflect off them.
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No one was injured in either fire, but investigations into the blazes found they were both caused by the sun’s rays being magnified off a mirror onto combustible materials.
Both fires occurred at similar times of day, between 2pm and 2.30pm.
A picture released by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service shows the aftermath of one fire which appears to have taken place in a bedroom.
The room can be seen covered in black soot and it appears the fire engulfed the whole room including the bed, windows and ceiling.
Prevention Group Manager Mark Thomas 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.
“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.
“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.”
GM Thomas added: “The most important thing you can do to keep you and your loved ones safe from fire in the home is to make sure you have working smoke alarms and we would urge residents across Merseyside to take time out of their day to check theirs are working.
“If you hear a smoke alarm sounding, don’t ignore it – even if it isn’t yours. If you hear a smoke alarm go off in a neighbour’s property, 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.”
Merseyside Fire and Rescue issued the following safety tips:
- Keep magnifying mirrors out of direct sunlight
- Never put glass ornaments or paperweights on window sills or in direct sunlight
- Make sure shaving or vanity mirrors are not left on window sills
- Be aware of objects in your home that may be exposed to direct sunlight
- You should have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home
- Consider installing additional alarms in rooms with electrical appliances or sleeping areas
- Test your smoke alarms once a week
