Latest news with #AliciaHempsted
Wales Online
3 days ago
- Wales Online
Urgent advice for anyone going to Greece, Turkey or Italy after earthquakes
Urgent advice for anyone going to Greece, Turkey or Italy after earthquakes Experts have explained what you need to know about current delays, cancellations and travel rules A cloud of ash and gas rise about ten kilometers above the summit craters, as Volcano Etna erupts again Travel experts have issued urgent advice for anyone heading to the Mediterranean this summer after earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. An earthquake hit the Greek island of Rhodes on Tuesday morning and a second hit the Turkish resort or Marmaris shortly after, leaving a 14-year-old girl dead and dozens of people injured. The earthquakes came hours after the volcano Mount Etna in Italy erupted. Etna, Europe's most active volcano, began spewing ash early in the day on Monday, temporarily disrupting air traffic at Catania Airport, and sending locals and tourists running for safety. Travel insurance expert Alicia Hempsted from MoneySuperMarket said: 'Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, can leave holidaymakers facing increased delays, travel disruption and cancellations. Travellers who are affected should check their travel insurance policy documents to see if they are eligible for compensation. 'Travel insurance policies that include natural disaster cover will generally cover you for cancelled accommodation, travel and activities, as well as emergency medical care and evacuation should you need it. 'Under UK and EU regulations, airlines are not required to compensate you for delayed or cancelled flights in 'extraordinary circumstances', which include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tsunamis. If your flight, however, is delayed because of this, your airline has an obligation to offer food, drink and accommodation depending on the length of your delay.' 'If extreme conditions are forecasted before you book or leave for your trip, and you choose to travel regardless, your insurance provider may not cover you for any related problems. Article continues below 'Buying your travel insurance as soon as you book your trip can ensure you are protected against the unexpected. Check your policy terms before buying your insurance, as some travel insurance providers may not cover you as standard in the event of a natural disaster. 'Be aware that if your policy includes natural disaster cover, this will only be paid out if the FCDO warns against anything other than essential travel. If your plans are impacted by a disaster, contact your insurance and airline as soon as you can.' In Italy, Catania Airport is now open, but 20% of arriving flights are facing delays. Article continues below Anton Radchenko, aviation expert and founder of AirAdvisor, said: 'Natural events like volcanic eruptions can be unpredictable, but they don't have to ruin your travel plans. The June 2 Mount Etna eruption has understandably caused concern, but the good news is that Sicily remains open and safe for travel. "So, there's no reason for Brits to cancel their Sicily holidays. Airspace is open, and the Mount Etna activity, while newsworthy, is being managed by Italian aviation authorities with high precision. Our analysis of flight data shows that while 20% of Catania flights are delayed, there are no cancellations, and that's critical for UK passengers planning summer getaways. "The key takeaway here is: don't cancel, just prepare. I always tell travellers to treat nature like you treat traffic—plan for a bump in the road, but don't abandon the journey. Book flexible tickets, arrive early at the airport, and keep an eye on real-time updates from the INGV and Catania Airport. Also, remember that even if compensation under EU261 may not apply due to the nature of the disruption, your right to meals, hotel stays, and alternative travel options still stands. Don't let uncertainty catch you off guard; if you're prepared, you'll travel with peace of mind. "Last but not least, here's a pro tip: check if your travel insurance covers natural disasters. It's a small detail most people miss, but it can make a big difference if your plans change last-minute.'
Daily Record
28-05-2025
- Daily Record
Homeowners warned over disposable vapes fire risk ahead of UK-wide ban this weekend
Disposable vapes will be illegal to sell both in stores and online from June 1. From this weekend it will be illegal to buy or sell disposable vapes in Britain. The bright-coloured, disposable e-cigs will be stripped from shelves up and down the UK in a bid to protect the environment and to deter young children from taking up the nasty habit that can cause several serious health complications. But, with reusable vapes containing lithium batteries still legal and many stockpiling single-use vapes ahead of the ban, experts are urging vapers to protect themselves and their homes. Vapes might be small, but the risk they pose is anything but. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, these devices can overheat, explode and cause serious house fires - and the problem is only getting worse, with the number of vapers in Britain reaching a record 5.6 million adults. When a lithium battery is damaged, overheats or short-circuits, it can trigger a chain reaction that causes it to burst into flames at up to 1,000°C2. These fires spread fast, release toxic fumes and produce deep-seated flames that are difficult to put out due to the battery's core being surrounded by other parts. In some cases, they can even reignite hours or days later because of residual chemical energy. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Alicia Hempsted, Home Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: 'Many vapers don't realise that using the wrong charger, leaving a vape on something flammable, like a bed, while charging, or using a damaged battery can quickly escalate into a fire. 'While home insurance may cover the damage, prevention is always better than a claim. Always use the correct charger, inspect your vape for any damage, and charge it on a flat, heat-resistant surface. Never leave it charging overnight or on soft materials like beds or sofas. Taking these simple steps can help keep you safe and avoid a disaster.' Could a Vape Fire Affect Your Home Insurance? Most home insurance policies cover fire damage, but it's important to know that if the fire is caused by negligence, improper charging, or the use of counterfeit products, your claim could be delayed or even rejected. Insurance companies may not cover incidents that occur due to preventable risks, leaving homeowners with the financial burden of repairs, lost belongings, and potential temporary relocation. Alicia added: "A fire in your home can be devastating, both emotionally and financially. While home insurance can offer a safety net, it's not a guarantee that every claim will be accepted - especially if negligence is involved. Taking proactive steps, like using the correct charger, checking your vape for damage, and safely storing batteries, can help prevent a fire before it starts." How to Protect Your Home from Vape Fires Battery Safety Avoid metal contact: Never carry vape batteries loose in a pocket or bag with coins or keys, as this can cause a short circuit. Store spares properly: Keep removable or spare batteries in a plastic case, away from children. Check for damage: If a battery is leaking, overheating, or has dents, stop using it immediately. Dispose of old batteries safely: Check with your local authority for proper disposal options and never put used batteries in the bin. Charging Safely Use the right charger: Only charge your vape with the manufacturer's charger, not a phone or tablet charger. Don't charge overnight: Never leave your vape charging unattended, especially while sleeping. Unplug when full: Overcharging can cause overheating and fire risks. Charge on a safe surface: Keep your vape on a flat, fire-resistant surface, away from flammable items. Buying Safe Vape Equipment Buy from reputable sellers: Cheap, fake, or second-hand vape products may lack safety features. Use the correct batteries: Not all batteries are safe for vaping - always use those recommended for your device. Don't mix batteries: Never use old and new batteries together or mix brands. Choose vapes with safety features: Look for devices with protection against overcharging, button locks, and vent holes.
Leader Live
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Leader Live
Drivers in Wales urged to check sat nav for correct 20mph data
Wales became one of the first countries in the world, and the first nation in the UK, to lower the default national speed limit on residential roads from 30mph to 20mph in September 2023. The Welsh Government said the change in speed limit was introduced to reduce collisions, save lives and reduce injuries. Despite it being nearly two years since the change, many in-car navigation systems and navigation apps are still showing old speed limits, according to MoneySuperMarket. The car insurance experts explained: "Many factory-fitted car systems rely on SD cards or unpatched software that do not automatically update with the new speed limits. "Older versions of popular navigation apps on smartphones, like Google Maps and Waze, also may not have fully incorporated the new speed limits, increasing the risk of accidental speeding and fines." This incorrect data is putting drivers at risk of speeding without even realising it. The experts at MoneySuperMarket are now calling on all drivers in Wales to check their sat navs and smartphone apps to make sure they have the latest, up-to-date versions. In North Wales alone, speeding offences rose from 62,742 in 2023 to 97,088 in 2024, many of them on newly designated 20mph routes. Car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, Alicia Hempsted, said: 'Many drivers place complete trust in their sat navs or apps, unaware that these tools may be showing outdated speed limits. "But even if it's accidental, you can still be fined for speeding. "Drivers who get a speeding conviction on a public road could see their annual premium increase by up to £179. "Therefore, keeping your tech updated is essential, and if in doubt, always follow what the road signs say over your phone or sat nav. 'Updating your system might sound technical, but it's often a quick process. "For in-car systems most require removing the SD card or USB, plugging it into a computer, and downloading updates via the manufacturer's website. "If your computer doesn't have an SD card slot, you can use an inexpensive SD card reader that plugs into a USB port.' Drivers are worried they may be penalised for unknowingly speeding. RECOMMENDED READING: So to help avoid a speeding fine, the experts at MoneySuperMarket have shared the following tips: Have you been caught speeding because of out-of-date data on a sat nav or smartphone since the change to 20mph on residential roads in Wales? Let us know in our poll above or in the comments below.
Western Telegraph
03-05-2025
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Parents close to deadline for GHIC cards warn experts
The UK GHIC is a key benefit that lets Brits get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA), and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay. It replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you have an existing EHIC you can continue to use it until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you'll need to apply for a UK GHIC to replace it. You can apply for a new card up to 9 months before your current card expires. Alicia Hempsted, travel insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, says: 'With schools in the UK breaking up for summer as early as Wednesday June 25, some parents now have just 20 working days left to apply for their Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) to ensure they arrive in time. 'Free to apply for and lasting for up to five years, applying for a GHIC card couldn't be simpler. Visit the NHS website, provide the appropriate details and then wait 24 hours for your application to be approved. All you need to know about the new free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) #MartinLewis — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) January 7, 2021 "It is important to note that each family member requires a GHIC card, so parents will need to complete one for each child. Once approved, your card will be sent to your address and should arrive within 15 working days.' You can apply for a UK GHIC if you're a resident in the UK. You can also add your family members to your application when you apply. You'll need to provide your: full name address date of birth National Insurance number Health and Care number (if you're from Northern Ireland) If I have a UK GHIC do I also need travel insurance? UK GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. You also need travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip. Alicia says: 'While a GHIC card will cover treatment for emergencies, it is not a direct replacement for travel insurance. Having the appropriate travel insurance before your holiday is vital, as there are several things that GHIC doesn't cover, such as medical repatriation or treatment in a private health facility should you need it. 'Wherever you're planning to travel this summer, it's vital to have the right travel insurance in place for you and your family so you can enjoy your trip worry-free.' You should also check FCDO travel advice on for the country you're visiting. Recommended reading: What is a GHIC card, and which countries are covered? 'In the event of a medical emergency, a GHIC card allows travellers to access state healthcare on the same basis as a resident in the country that you are visiting," says Alicia. 'GHIC covers emergency healthcare in any country within the European Economic Area (EEA), and other countries such as Montenegro, Australia and Jersey. "A full list of countries is available on the NHS website.'
Powys County Times
02-05-2025
- Health
- Powys County Times
Parents close to deadline for GHIC cards warn experts
Parents have just days left to apply for essential healthcare cover ahead of the school summer holidays, with Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) 1.53 million cards set to expire in 2025, and many never having had one. The UK GHIC is a key benefit that lets Brits get necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA), and some other countries, on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay. It replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you have an existing EHIC you can continue to use it until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you'll need to apply for a UK GHIC to replace it. You can apply for a new card up to 9 months before your current card expires. Alicia Hempsted, travel insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, says: 'With schools in the UK breaking up for summer as early as Wednesday June 25, some parents now have just 20 working days left to apply for their Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) to ensure they arrive in time. 'Free to apply for and lasting for up to five years, applying for a GHIC card couldn't be simpler. Visit the NHS website, provide the appropriate details and then wait 24 hours for your application to be approved. All you need to know about the new free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) #MartinLewis — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) January 7, 2021 "It is important to note that each family member requires a GHIC card, so parents will need to complete one for each child. Once approved, your card will be sent to your address and should arrive within 15 working days.' You can apply for a UK GHIC if you're a resident in the UK. You can also add your family members to your application when you apply. You'll need to provide your: full name address date of birth National Insurance number Health and Care number (if you're from Northern Ireland) If I have a UK GHIC do I also need travel insurance? UK GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. You also need travel and medical insurance for the duration of your trip. Alicia says: 'While a GHIC card will cover treatment for emergencies, it is not a direct replacement for travel insurance. Having the appropriate travel insurance before your holiday is vital, as there are several things that GHIC doesn't cover, such as medical repatriation or treatment in a private health facility should you need it. 'Wherever you're planning to travel this summer, it's vital to have the right travel insurance in place for you and your family so you can enjoy your trip worry-free.' You should also check FCDO travel advice on for the country you're visiting. Recommended reading: What is a GHIC card, and which countries are covered? 'In the event of a medical emergency, a GHIC card allows travellers to access state healthcare on the same basis as a resident in the country that you are visiting," says Alicia. 'GHIC covers emergency healthcare in any country within the European Economic Area (EEA), and other countries such as Montenegro, Australia and Jersey. "A full list of countries is available on the NHS website.'
