Fire service reminds people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire on dangers around magnified sunlight
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service say they've dealt with such incidents this year
People across Herefordshire and Worcestershire are being reminded of the dangers of leaving objects such as glasses and mirrors in places where they can magnify sunlight.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service say fires have been caused inside homes by magnifying mirrors reflecting light onto items, and they've already been to incidents this year.
Group commander Simon Cusack says the warm weather is great, but people need to also be careful of the risks it can present.
"The recent weather reports are looking like summer might have finally arrived, and this does bring with it a number of challenges for us," he said.
"One of those is around magnified sunlight, so we want to remind people of the importance of moving mirrors and glass ornaments out of direct sunlight.
"This is because we know that on a hot sunny day, these objects can start to magnify the sun's rays, and this then has the potential to start a fire.
"Something as simple as leaving a glass bottle after you've finished with it on the side of the hill could actually result in quite significant and sustained fire throughout our two counties, so we do want people to take their litter home with them and dispose of it safely."
Further advice can be found on the fire service's website.