Industry News from Yes Insurance

The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has issued a warning to house-owners that the risk of an accidental death from a house fire increases by 50 per cent over the festive period.

This grave message is being forced home via a graphic new safety video launched by the DCLG and a pamphlet detailing the top ten ways to prevent fire ruining Christmas.

Deaths caused by fire are at their lowest level since the 1950s, with deliberate fires down by more than a third at 66,000, compared to the 2002 figure of 102,000 and serious fires over the same period have dropped by nearly a quarter.

Fire minister Angela Smith said: "Figures show that while there has been a significant and sustained fall in the number of fire deaths, the risks over the festive period are greater than normal.

"This hard-hitting campaign is a serious reminder that many of the things we enjoy about Christmas can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken and provides twelve tips for festive fire safety," Ms Smith continued.

The twelve tips of fire safety are designed to remind people to act safely with festive decorations, including turning off unused Christmas tree lights and outdoor illuminated displays.

Homeowners are also being reminded to update their home insurance to make sure that all the gifts and presents in the house are covered if the worst should happen.