A JAR of Nutella is being blamed for a devastating fire that ruined a family home and killed a dog.

The huge blaze, which destroyed the roof and severely damaged the first floor, is thought to have started when low winter sunlight shone through the chocolate spread container on a window sill, reports The Mirror.

The sun reflecting off glass items has apparently caused at least five other fires in London in recent months.

Declan Murphy wants others to be aware of the danger following the incident at his home at the weekend.

He, his wife and their two children were out at the time but their 9 year old Jack Russell Chili, was trapped inside and died of smoke inhalation.

“We’re all heartbroken at Chili’s death and we’ve been told it will be up to a year before the house is ready for us to move back into,” said the 41-year-old electrical supervisor.

“I want to ensure other people are aware of the dangers and know to keep glass items away from windows and out of direct sunlight so they don’t have to go through anything like this.”

The London Fire Brigade has revealed it had been called to 125 fires caused by the sun’s rays over the last five years — including five this winter alone.

Charlie Pugsley, from the brigade’s fire investigation unit, told the Mirror: “These sort of fires are not as rare as you would think.

“I’ve seen everything from sparkly door knobs to crystal balls starting fires.

“Crystal and glass ornaments and items such as mirror tables should be kept out of direct sunlight.

“We wouldn’t advise that people put fires out themselves.

“This shows these fires are not an urban myth.

“Also make sure that you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home.”