23/10/2006

November 5th could really go up in flames for householders planning to celebrate Bonfire Night at home. New research reveals that more than a million* British homes have been damaged as a result of fireworks going astray in the last five years.

The research, commissioned by home insurer Churchill, also reveals nearly a million** revellers have damaged their neighbour’s properties in the past by setting off fireworks that have gone off course. Nearly two million*** householders have been hurt or have a family member who has been hurt by a firework in the past.

Over eight million households are getting ready to celebrate Bonfire Night at their own home or at the homes of their families and friends this year – but they should take note of safety advice. Thirty-seven percent don’t take any safety precautions and simply keep the fireworks in the packaging they came in, and only a third (35%) follow recommended instructions and keep fireworks in a metal box.

Martin Scott, Head of Home Insurance at Churchill, said:
“Personal safety and the potential for damage to property are clearly major issues for homeowners hosting parties on Bonfire Night. By observing a few safety precautions, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced.”

One in five householders (18%) say safety concerns prevent them from celebrating Bonfire Night. Almost half of British families (48%) now prefer to watch an organised public display. Three-quarters of householders believe fireworks should only be used by people who are licensed to use them properly.

Top five fears haunting revellers ahead of Bonfire Night include:

• People throwing and misusing fireworks out in the street (60%)
• Personal safety of family and friends (56%)
• Safety of pets (43%)
• Damage to the home and property (22%)
• Fears of being burgled when out at a display (10%)

Churchill’s advice to householders to help keep them safe on Bonfire Night:

• Ensure that you only buy fireworks from recommended retailers
• Never store the fireworks in the house, but keep them in a garage or shed within a metal box
• Ensure that fireworks stay dry at all times
• Follow the instructions displayed on the firework
• Keep your pets indoors at all times

Notes to editors:
Research commissioned by Churchill Home Insurance in September 2006 amongst 2,213 respondents.
Calculations:
* 1,265,000 = 25.3m (number of UK households) / 100 x 5% (number of households that reported damage over the last five years)
** 974,000 = 25.3m (number of UK households) / 100 x 3.85% (number of households that reported damage to a neighbour’s house)
*** 1,771,000 = 25.3m (number of UK households) / 100 x 7% (number that say they have or have a family member that has been hurt by a firework in the past)

For more information please contact:

Abi Clark
Churchill Insurance
020 8313 5830
pressoffice@churchill.com