Window / Mirror - Fire Safety

Please do not keep magnifying beauty mirrors next to a window, because they can concentrate the sun's rays, causing a near-by objects (such as curtains, clothing, paper or furniture) to set fire.

The sun's rays can be magnified by a lens or magnifying mirror, so it is dangerous to leave glass objects, like magnifying mirrors, too close to windows.

In fact, anything that can concentrate the sun's rays like fish bowls or glasses of water, should be kept away from windows to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out.

Safety advice

Keep magnifying mirrors out of direct sunlight

Never put glass ornaments or paperweights on window sills
Never place glass ornaments or paperweights in direct sunlight
Make sure shaving or vanity mirrors are not left on window sills
Be aware of objects in your home such as shaving or vanity mirrors and glass ornaments or paperweights that may be exposed to direct sunlight

Carry out your own home safety check

Complete our online home safety check and you will get a personalised fire safety plan, which will offer advice on how to prevent fires in your home.

Do the online home safety check

Book a home safety check

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service will fit free smoke alarms for people who are aged over 65 and for people who are referred to us by partner agencies because they are considered to be at a particular risk.

If you are over 65 years of age and you live in Cheshire, you can arrange for a Firefighter or a Community Safety Advocate to visit your home for a free home safety visit. During the home safety visit advice will be given on how to make your home safer, what to do in the event of a fire and what to do if you are trapped by a fire. Free smoke alarms will also be fitted (if needed) with an explanation on how to maintain them correctly.

Book a home safety visit for over 65’s