Lucky escape after refracted sunlight from mirror nearly sparks house fire

An important reminder ahead of another sunny weekend.

Winchester firefighters were called to a property in Ropley this morning after a smell of burning was reported.

The smell was caused by a mirror refracting sunlight onto a nearby fabric which was smouldering as the crew arrived.

Fortunately, it didn’t develop into a fire due to the quick intervention, but it is an important reminder that you ensure any glass ornaments and mirrors aren’t left near windows where they could catch and magnify the sun’s rays and burn soft furnishings in your home.