THE CAUSE of a fire which destroyed a thatched roof house has been revealed.

Eight crews were called to the blaze in Horam on February 2 following reports of a fire in the roof of a two-storey building.

Firefighters used foam and water in an attempt to extinguish the fire, but it had already taken hold and damaged the entire building in Nettlesworth Lane.

A fire investigator from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has revealed that the sun shining off a mirror is the likely cause of the fire.

Jason Brooks, fire investigator, said: “Due to the extent of the damage, it is not possible to say with absolute certainty what caused the fire, however a likely cause is sun reflecting off a mirror.

“The sun’s rays can become concentrated by reflective or focusing objects including mirrors, glasses, paperweights or plastic items and other items nearby start to smoulder and sometimes catch fire.

“It is a common problem seen by other fire and rescue services, as well as by this service.

“These incidents tend to occur in rooms with south facing windows and when the sun is lower so we’re asking everyone to take a look to see whether they could be at risk.”

The fire began at about 9.50am on February 2.

At the time of the incident, nearby residents were urged to keep their windows and doors closed due to high levels of smoke in the area.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service also provided useful advice and tips on how to avoid this happening.

  • Consider storing objects such as magnifying glasses, mirrors, spectacles and glass ornaments away from windows, particularly if it is south facing, or covering them when not in use.
  • Take extra care during the autumn and winter months when the sun is low in the sky.
  • Get into the habit of closing internal doors when you leave home and as part of your bedtime routine.
  • Test your smoke alarm every week.
  • Place objects capable of focusing the sun’s rays close to the window and combustible materials such as upholstery, curtains or paper.