Why You Shouldn’t Put Mirrors Near Windows When It’s Sunny
Mirrors can help to brighten up a room, but they can also be a fire hazard. When mirrors (and other items such as glass) are placed near windows, they can focus the sun’s rays and create a hot spot that can ignite flammable materials.
In fact, there have been several cases of fires caused by mirrors. In one case, a mirror in a bedroom reflected the sun’s rays onto a nearby dresser, causing the dresser to catch fire. In another case, a mirror in a living room reflected the sun’s rays onto a coffee table, causing the coffee table to catch fire. Click this link to see a short video of this happening:
To prevent fires, it’s important to avoid placing mirrors near windows. If you do have a mirror near a window, make sure to keep it covered when the sun is shining. You can also use window blinds or curtains to block the sun’s rays from reaching the mirror. Remember to keep mirrors away from flammable materials, such as curtains, bedding, and furniture.
Here is a short article and photos & video regarding a fire service that recently had to deal with 2 such fires in a 6 day space. Click here:
Here are some additional information about mirrors and fires:
- The sun’s rays are very powerful and can focus through a mirror to create a hot spot that can ignite flammable materials.
- The hotter the day, the more likely it is that a mirror will focus the sun’s rays and cause a fire.
- Mirrors are most likely to cause fires when they are placed in direct sunlight.
- Mirrors can also cause fires when they are placed near other heat sources, such as candles or fireplaces.
By understanding the risk and following some simple tips, you can help keep your home safe from fires caused by mirrors.
If you have any mirrors in your home or business, it’s important to be aware of the potential fire hazard and take steps to prevent a fire.
This and much more is discussed during our Fire courses which can be found by clicking this link. 1st Choice Fire Courses.
Get in touch if you’d like to ask us anything fire or safety related. [email protected] or 0800 0096876
