Fire investigators have warned people 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 center, after being left on a window sill at a commercial property.
The initial call had come into the Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service’s Fire Control at 10.03 am, on Saturday, June 18, 2022 and the first of three appliances were on scene in just five minutes.
Fire caused by magnifying glass
People can sometimes forget the dangers that can be present on a hot summer’s day"
Upon arrival firefighters from Newcastle Central and Byker Community Fire Stations found a small fire and quickly extinguished it, before it could spread. Sunlight had reflected off the magnifying glass and then concentrated on two cardboard boxes, containing a set of plastic scales.
Steven Walker, the Watch Manager for Red Watch at Newcastle Central Community Fire Station, has said the incident is a timely warning to the public. He stated, “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 the building staff was alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm.”
Ensuring functional smoke alarms present in buildings
He adds, “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.”
Steven Walker continues, “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.”
Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service’s firefighters left the scene after nine minutes of assessing and dealing with the city center fire. Thankfully, nobody was injured during the incident.