WATCH ABOVE: Allison Vuchnich explains how sun shining through an empty jar of Nutella sparked a fire, according to London fire officials.
Fire officials have issued a warning after a fire devastated a London, England home. The Murphy family was out celebrating an anniversary, on February 15, when the fire started.
Fire investigators believe the blaze broke out when low sunlight refracted through a glass jar – and set the window’s blinds on fire. The Murphy’s daughter had been using an empty Nutella container to store rubber band bracelets, according to fire investigators.
Sadly, the family’s dog, Chili, a Jack Russell terrier, died in the fire from smoke inhalation.
“It sounds farfetched that a jar containing a few rubber bands caused a severe house fire but that’s exactly what happened,” said Charlie Pugsley, from the London Fire Brigade’s investigation unit.
“It’s worth spending five minutes checking that your window ledges are clear of any glass or crystal that might lead to potentially life changing blaze”, he added.
According to the Brigade, fires starting from sunlight refracting off glass objects and mirrors are not as rare as you think. London fire fighters have responded to blazes set after sunlight hit crystal door knobs, mirrors and mirrored tables – igniting curtains, dressing gowns and even a bean bag chair.
“This shows these fires are not an urban myth. Also make sure that you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home.“
Comments