Remember, remember – check you’re insured this bonfire season

Householders planning to hold a bonfire party are being reminded that they can be held legally responsible if any of their guests or a neighbour is injured by a stray firework.

In autumn 2005, 990 people across the country were treated for firework-related injuries. Almost half of those injuries happened at a family or private party compared to 121 at a large public display. Rockets were the most dangerous firework, causing 216 injuries, while sparklers were the cause of 104 injuries.

The Cornhill Direct home contents insurance policy provides cover for up to £2,000,000 if the policyholder injures a third party as a result of an accident. Policyholders must take all reasonable steps to prevent accidents, injury, loss or damage, and should comply with the 'Firework Code'.

As well as the risk of personal injury, fireworks and bonfires can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to property.

Simon Coughlin, spokesman for Cornhill Direct, said: “Insurers receive hundreds of claims every year for damage resulting from stray fireworks. Claims include broken windows, damaged roof tiles and fires to property such as fences.”

Most household buildings and contents policies will provide cover if your property or possessions are damaged by the bonfire or by a stray firework. People with a non-standard property such as a thatched roof may have additional restrictions on their policies and should check with their insurance company.

If a firework damages someone else’s property or possessions as a result of the policyholder’s negligence, the public liability section of the household contents policy should provide financial protection.

Mr Coughlin also warned householders not to let criminals ruin their bonfire night this year.

He said: “Bonfire night can be a favourite with burglars, who often target homes when there is a large public firework display nearby. Fireworks can easily disguise the noise of windows being broken. Make sure your home is properly secured if you are going to a public display.”