FIREFIGHTERS are warning of the danger of mirrors reflecting sunlight after a freak bedroom fire in Fernhurst last month.

They are also reminding people to make sure all internal doors are closed to help stop the spread of fire and smoke in the event a fire breaks out.

Fire crews from Haslemere, Midhurst and Camberley tackled a fire which broke out in a detached house in Hawksfold Lane East at around 4.15pm, last Tuesday.

Firemen had to use four sets of breathing apparatus and two hose reels to fight the fire, which started in a bedroom and spread causing extensive smoke damage.

There was no-one in the house at the time, but the homeowner returned to hear their smoke detector and see smoke coming from the first floor of their home.

The firefighters said the internal doors were left open and issued a timely reminder to householders to close doors when they go out, adding it was also important to shut internal doors when going to bed as it helped to stop the spread of fire and smoke.

The fire is believed to have started when sunlight reflected from a dressing table mirror, setting a candle alight on the bedroom windowsill, which then caught the curtains alight.

Midhurst watch manager Nigel Gamblen said: “This may sound like a freak incident but actually it isn’t that uncommon.

“We’ve attended fires started in this way by mirrors and ornaments before, particularly during the winter months when the sun is very low.

“Our advice is wherever possible make sure mirrors and glass ornaments are not in direct sunlight or on windowsills.”

He added: “We would also like to remind people we offer free home safety visits in West Sussex for people over 65 or those with a disability.

Call 0845 872 9719 or visit www.westsussex.gov. uk/fire to find out if you are eligible.”