Fire risk warning issued by Aviva amid increase in claims
The number of garden fire claims increased in April and May this year, according to data from insurance giant Aviva, overtaking every other month in 2024.
The insurer said that the average fire claim involving a garden in the UK amounts to nearly £16,000.
The rise in fire claims comes off the back of the UK experiencing its sunniest spring on record.
The UK has just endured its sunniest spring on record. (Image: Lucy North/PA Wire) Around 630 hours of sunshine were recorded across the country between March 1 and May 27, according to provisional figures from the Met Office.
This beats the previous record of 626 hours set back in 2020.
An increase in people enjoying barbecues and bonfires in their gardens during the warmer weather is, in part, being blamed for the increase in fire claims, Aviva said.
Lightning claims have also increased over the past five years, according to the insurers data.
Lightning strikes can spark fires in homes, Aviva warned.
They can cause electrical items to break or malfunction, leading to fires.
Examples of some fire claims seen by the insurer include:
Senior underwriting manager at Aviva, Hannah Davidson, said: 'Although warmer weather is often welcome news, we're urging people to remain vigilant when it comes to fire safety.
'The warm weather, paired with a lack of rain means that once started, a fire can spread very quickly – particularly as the ground is dry.
'Popular items in gardens, such as wooden fences and sheds, can be flammable, causing flames to spread quickly.
"A small fire in the garden can also spread to the home, causing significant damage.
'Whether it's hosting friends for a barbecue, charging devices and tools outside or in the home, or even hanging a mirror outside in your garden for decoration, it's worth paying close attention to what could become a potential fire hazard.'
Following the increase in claims, Aviva has issued several safety tips to help reduce the risk of a fire in your home or garden:
Aviva said: "If possible, it is best to avoid garden bonfires which can quickly get out of control, especially during dry and windy conditions.
"If you do light a fire, never leave it unattended and keep water or a hose nearby.
"Exercise caution with fire pits and extinguish them before you go inside."
The insurer added it is also a good idea to keep an eye on fires in neighbouring gardens, in case they spread.
Before barbecuing, Aviva urged Brits to check the weather forecast for any wind which can make barbecuing "significantly more dangerous".
People enjoying barbecues in their gardens during warmer weather is one of the theings being blamed for an increase in fire claims recently. (Image: Getty Images) The insurance experts explained: "Gusts of wind can carry hot embers or sparks several feet away, increasing the possibility of a fire.
"When barbecuing, be mindful that ash can stay hot for days, so wait until it has cooled before disposing.
"Always place disposable barbecues on a non-flammable or heat resistant surface, away from grass, fences, or sheds and leave them until they have cooled completely."
Overheating lithium-ion batteries can cause fires, so always unplug chargers once tools are fully charged.
Aviva added: "Avoid charging devices overnight or leaving them unattended."
Sunlight magnified through glass objects can start fires, Aviva warned.
"Keep mirrors, bottles, and other reflective items away from direct sunlight," the insurer added.
RECOMMENDED READING:
Cigarettes and matches can easily ignite dry grass or decking.
Aviva said: "Always extinguish them fully and dispose of them safely."
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