Lloyds TSB expecting “surge” in domestic fires

Lloyds TSB Insurance has said that it is expecting a "dramatic surge" in the number of domestic fires occurring over the Christmas period, with fairy lights and candles heightening the risk to homes.

The insurer is anticipating a 70 per cent increase in claims for fire damage over the 2006 festive season.

According to research by Lloyds TSB, one in five people admit to leaving their cooker switched on when they leave the house.

Another 16 per cent of people said they don’t test their smoke alarms regularly and almost one in three don’t have a planned escape route in the event of a fire.

Phil Loney, managing director of Lloyds TSB Insurance, said: "If there’s one clear and present danger this Christmas, it is fire. Come the 25th of December it seems that most of us forget the basics of home safety and in doing so we’re putting ourselves in real danger.

"Whether you’re putting up the decorations or preparing the Christmas lunch it’s important to take extra care at this time of year. We’re expecting a huge rise in the number of domestic fires, but there is still time to avoid becoming a statistic."