Sunlight Sets London Home Ablaze: Glass Doorknob Sparks Fire in Dulwich
Firefighters Issue Urgent Warning
A blazing glass doorknob caused a fire at a Dulwich home on Underhill Road this Tuesday. Fire crews are now warning Londoners to keep glass, crystal ornaments, and shaving mirrors out of direct sunlight to avoid similar fiery mishaps.
Small Bedroom Fire, Big Scare
The fire damaged a small section of a first-floor bedroom in a three-storey semi. Thankfully, the occupant evacuated safely before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.
How the Fire Started
The blaze was accidental, sparked by focused sunrays bouncing off a spherical glass doorknob. These rays ignited nearby hanging clothes, showing how everyday items can turn dangerous when hit by strong sunlight.
Fire Brigade’s Top Safety Tips
- Keep mirrors, crystals, and glass objects away from sunny window sills.
- Install at least one smoke alarm per floor and test weekly to ensure working batteries.
- If a fire breaks out, close doors on the blaze, get out, stay out, and call the Brigade immediately.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said, “These fires aren’t as rare as you’d think. They can happen year-round, but as we head into summer with stronger sun, it’s vital to keep reflective items out of direct light.”
Crews from New Cross, Peckham, and West Norwood fire stations tackled the blaze, arriving just minutes after the 9.50am call. The fire was under control by 10.49am.
