Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a house fire on Ayles Road in Hayes.
Parts of the ground floor, garden, first floor and loft of a semi-detached house were damaged by fire. A small part of the loft space of a neighbouring property was also damaged. Four people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by refracted sunlight.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Fires caused by refracted sunlight can happen all year round and can be common.
"Our advice is to make sure that you keep mirrors, crystals, glass ornaments and other reflective items out of direct sunlight at all times.”
The Brigade’s Control Officers took the first of 20 calls to the fire at 1231 and sent fire crews from Hillingdon, Northolt and Southall fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 1325.
The Brigade’s top three sunlight safety tips:
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Keep reflective items such as mirrors, crystals or glass objects away from sunny window sills and flammable materials.
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Make sure there are working smoke alarms fitted in every room where a fire can start except kitchens or bathrooms where heat alarms are more appropriate
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If you have a fire, close the door on the blaze, get out, stay out and call 999