Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service warn of perils of leave glass on dashboards after refracted sunlight causes van to catch light

People are being advised not to leave their glasses on their vehicle dashboards after sunlight caused a vehicle to catch fire.

The fire service is asking the public not to leave glass objects in direct sunlight following the fire, caused by refracted sunlight.

On Saturday, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service received a call to van fire in Nuthall at 5.05pm.

A crew from Stockhill Fire Station attended the incident and used a hose reel to extinguish the fire.

A fire investigation determined that prescription sunglasses left in direct sunlight on the dashboard of the vehicle was the most likely cause of the fire.

Photos from the scene show the extent of the damage with most of the dashboard melted and a hole pierced through the windscreen.

Station Manager Chris Navin said: “With the sunny days approaching we ask people to be careful about not placing glass objects in direct sunlight as the consequences can be devastating.

“We have seen fires in the past where sunlight has refracted off objects like magnifying mirrors, containers of water and fish tanks.

“These objects should be kept out of direct sunlight, and please also make sure that you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home.”