Beware the bad ‘guy’ as burglary claims soar on Bonfire Night

Published: 02 Nov 2018

With people preparing for fireworks festivities, Aviva data shows they need to beware of bonfire burglars.

An image of fireworks over houses
Almost 60% of people do not check they’ve locked the front door before a bonfire party, according to Aviva research.

Aviva's data shows that claims soar by 42%1 on November 5th as thieves take advantage of empty homes.

But Aviva research shows that many don’t do the necessary checks before leaving the house, with just under 40% not checking their windows are locked and 29% not checking doors.2

Claims soar on Bonfire Night

42%

increase in burglary claims 

50%

increase in fire claims

In addition, 55% don’t leave a light or radio on to make the house look occupied and 62% don’t ensure bikes and valuable items in the garden are locked away.  However, 13% are now using a smart home security device to keep an eye on their property while they are out.

And many of those who are having a bonfire party at home are leaving their home at risk from thieves with almost 60% not checking they’ve locked the front door before heading out to the garden.  A further two-thirds (64%) don’t check that windows are locked and 62% don’t hide away valuables.

With many families out enjoying the bonfire celebrations our data shows that they need to beware of bonfire burglars looking to take advantage of empty homes.  Those attending a display, or having one at home, need to make sure their home is properly secure and don’t make it easy for opportunist thieves to gain access. Otherwise it could be an unforgettable bonfire night for all the wrong reasons.

Adam Beckett, Aviva Product and Proposition Director

As well as burglaries increasing on Bonfire Night, unsurprisingly fire claims rise by 50% as fireworks cause damage to homes.

Do you / members of your household usually attend a Bonfire night or fireworks event away from your own home, such as a local fireworks display?

  • Yes, always

    21.0%

  • Yes, sometimes

    46.0%

  • No, never

    33.0%

With Aviva home insurance if the worst does happen you can make a claim online through MyAviva – the MyAviva app can be downloaded to a smartphone.  You can also call our UK claims team 24/7.

Tips to deter burglars

  • If you are hosting a bonfire night party in your back garden make sure front windows and doors are locked.
  • Leave a radio and lights on to give the impression that people are at home.
  • Use a timer switch to turn lights on as it gets dark.
  • Avoid telling strangers who know your address – such as delivery men – that your house is likely to be empty.
  • Put your car and bikes in your garage or out of the way for the night and don’t leave your keys in an obvious place.
  • Move garden ornaments and potted plants from the front of your house and out of sight.
  • Make sure sheds, garages and outbuildings have robust locks.

-ENDS-

1Average Aviva claims 2007-2017

2Censuswide poll of 2001 adults between 4-8 October 2018

Media enquiries

John Franklin
01603 680795
john.s.franklin@aviva.com

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