The research shows more than one in 20 Brits have injured themselves when putting up Christmas decorations with a similar number (7%) causing damage to their home in the process.
The research reveals that in their quest to ‘deck the halls’ people balance on chairs, perch on stepladders and clamber over furniture to hang tinsel, paper chains and mistletoe, risking both injury to themselves and damage to their homes.
And these seasonal displays can sometimes pose potential fire hazards. According to the findings, more than one in 20 people (6%) have experienced a household fire as a result of their Christmas lights and/or festive candles. It is a serious reminder that many of the things people enjoy about Christmas - such as the fairy lights, candles and decorations - can all be fire hazards when proper care is not taken.
Homeowners should also be concerned about visits from Christmas crooks, with one in 20 Brits (5%) claiming that their home has been broken into during the festive period. This could well be because burglars know that there are richer pickings at this time of year, with more cash and gift items in circulation, coupled with the fact that darker days make it more obvious when houses are unoccupied.
Commenting on the research Gareth Lane, head of home insurance at Confused.com, said: “Christmas should be the time of good cheer, festive fun and happy family get-togethers. However, the party season also brings with it an increased risk of accidents in the home, with the festive decorations sometimes providing more than just a little extra sparkle.
“Finally, remember that when your home is filled with expensive gifts and decorations, burglars may be more likely to strike. However, if thieves do run off with your inflatable snowman or Christmas lights, or if vandals damage them, a standard home contents insurance policy should typically cover the losses.”
