Garden furniture warning as patio items could set on fire in hot weather

A fire warning has been issued after the UK faced a staggering 28 percent increase in fires last year, with 185,437 incidents reported, according to GOV UK.

Alongside common fire garden dangers such as barbecues and fire pits, experts from GB Foam, a UK furniture component expert, have highlighted how garden furniture is often an overlooked aspect of outdoor fire safety.

Garden furniture including mirrors and fire pits can make great additions to outdoor spaces, but Britons should be mindful when it gets warmer.

The experts said: "Check for safety labels on furniture. Look for fire safety labels that indicate legal complications with UK standards. If uncertain, consult your furniture supplier for clarification."

This is also extremely important when purchasing second-hand items, so always make sure to check for it on the piece of furniture.

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When temperatures reach above 25C, Britons should remove glass tops from furniture, such as from a table.

Caution should also be taken when sourcing replacement cushion filling and they should be obtained by a reputable supplier.

Fillings should also comply with relevant fire safety standards to help reduce the risk of ignition and improve the overall safety of any garden.

The pros noted: "If possible, some manufacturers advise removing glass tops from tables, as they can intensify heat in direct sunlight, leading to melting or burning.

"Exercise caution with garden mirrors too. When mirrors reflect sun rays, they concentrate energy. This could be enough to cause combustion when directed at flammable materials."

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To be extra sure that a garden mirror doesn't cause an accidental fire, make sure to keep it away from fences and dry garden areas.

It is worth positioning it in a shaded area of the garden as this will still reflect the garden and give the illusion of extra space.

The furniture experts continued: "Maintain a safe distance around BBQs and fire pits too. Keep flammable materials at a safe distance from them and have an appropriate fire extinguishing source at hand."

This includes not lighting or using a BBQ on any wooden surface such as a decking, and making sure disposable ones are placed on an appropriate surface.

If possible, make sure to have working smoke alarms not only throughout your home but also in outdoor spaces such as sheds and garages too.

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Test them monthly to ensure they are still working and replace batteries as necessary to avoid any fires.

GB Foam experts also advised Britons not to leave their phones out in direct sunlight, either on a table or chair as it could set alight.

They noted: "To prevent this, keep your phone away from direct sunlight for long periods of time as well as away from potentially flammable surfaces like cushions and throws.

"Power banks can cause a similar reaction in high temperatures, so charge your phone in a cooler environment.

"We’re determined to help improve furniture fire safety in any way we can. Overall, the UK maintains a high standard when it comes to furniture, but unfortunately, some lesser quality pieces can still slip through.

"In addition, many people also choose to make their own furniture by recycling wooden pallets, which can be a cost-effective way to furnish your garden but may pose unexpected fire risks.

"Proper safety practices, combined with sourcing the right furniture materials can help to mitigate these risks."