17 May 2019
St Helena is currently experiencing very hot weather conditions, which can start unexpected fires. Items such as magnifying glasses, mirrors and glass paperweights can reflect and concentrate the sun’s rays to a single point, causing any nearby combustible materials such as curtains, clothing, paper or furniture to spontaneously combust.
Due to this process, the sun’s rays are magnified, hence it is a dangerous practice for anyone to leave any glass objects in window sills or within close proximity to any windows that catch direct sunlight. In fact, anything that can concentrate the sun’s rays such as fish bowls, glasses of water, paper weights etc should be kept away from any window to reduce the risk of a potential fire.
Safety tips
- Keep magnifying mirrors out of direct sunlight
- Never put glass ornaments or paper weights on window sills
- Never place ornaments or glass paper weights in direct sunlight
- Make sure shaving or vanity mirrors are not left on windows sills
- Close all blinds or curtains when rooms are not in use. If windows do not have blinds, please consider installing them
- Be aware of all objects in your home or places of work that can concentrate the sun’s rays and remove them to a safer location away from direct sunlight
The St Helena Fire & Rescue Service advises the public to assess their work/home environment to prevent any unexpected fires from occurring.
Should you require any fire safety assistance for your place of work or home, please feel free to contact the St Helena Fire & Rescue Service on tel: 23344.
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SHG
17 May 2019