Many fireworks displays have been cancelled for a second year running, due to the ongoing pandemic. Local displays usually attract thousands to their events and often raise valuable funds for a number of charities. However, organisers are citing the reason for cancellation is due to covid safety concerns.
With organised local displays being cancelled, you may decide to hold your own private fireworks display for friends and family. The perfect evening of being surrounded by loved ones, being able to nip indoors when it gets too cold outside and no queue for the toilets! But have you considered your home insurance?
Home Insurance, we hear you ask.
One thing you probably haven’t factored into the planning of your fireworks and bonfire display. And it may seem a little bit extreme, but stick with us and we’ll go over why you might need to check your policy documents or look to get some further protection.
Picture the scene, the kids are enjoying a sparkler, your partner is on their 2nd or 5th glass of Pino, and you’ve just lit ‘The Tornado Big One’ that you’ll hope will wow your guests. Part of the firework, flies toward the fence and sets it alight, causing a considerable amount of damage. Would your home insurance cover your (or your neighbor’s) fence for the cost of replacing it?
Even worse, if it injures a friend or family member, would the damages be covered?
First of all, don’t panic. We’re about to go over what you may or may not be covered for should you need to make a claim. As always, if there is something you’re not sure about, then always check the wording in your policy document, or contact our friendly customer service team by clicking here.
Will my home insurance cover my fireworks/bonfire night party?
The good news is that most home insurance policies should cover you if you need to make a claim in regards to damage caused to your property. As mentioned previously, it is always best to check the wording in your policy document. Alternatively, contact your broker or insurer to double-check it.
Am I covered if someone gets injured at my fireworks/bonfire night party?
According to NHS Digital, nearly 2,000 people visited A&E as a result of fireworks in 2018/19. But what if one of your guests becomes injured at your fireworks or bonfire night party?
Most buildings and contents will include a level of indemnity for public liability claims. When you take out a policy, the limit will be quoted in the summary. If you already have building and contents insurance, then check your policy document or speak to your insurance broker.
How to stay safe if you’re planning a fireworks/bonfire night?
Here are a few ways you can keep your friends and family safe this fireworks/bonfire night.
- Make sure you purchase from a licenced shop and reputable brand. You can find a list of members of the British Firework Association. In order to keep their membership, they must meet certain criteria and follow a code of conduct.
- Let your neighbours know out of courtesy. Or even better, invite them over to enjoy the festivities. Young children, the elderly and animals can become easily scared if fireworks start going off. Letting them know in advance can allow them to prepare, especially for pet owners, so they can keep their animals indoors.
- Keep animals indoors. This time of year can be particularly stressful for animals of all sizes. This video from the RSPA has some great tips on keeping pets calm during fireworks season, including a ‘Doggy Den’
- Keep fireworks in their box. This will keep them safe, dry and falling into the wrong/little hands.
- Don’t be tempted to drink alcohol if you are put in charge of lighting the fireworks. Wait until your lighting duties are complete, then you can enjoy all the compliments for putting on a great display.
- Be sure to follow the safety instructions listed on the box and on the individual firework.
- Light fireworks at arm’s length, with a taper and then stand well back.
- Once a firework has been lit, do not return to it – even if it hasn’t gone off. Some fireworks may have a delayed fuse.
- Don’t keep fireworks in your pocket and never through them
- Sparklers are fun. Period. But they can be just as dangerous as fireworks. Not to be used by under 5’s. Make sure children are always supervised when using fireworks. Avoid holding the sparkler directly, maybe using gloves, or sticking the sparkler into a carrot for safety. Once the sparkler has finished, it’s best to have a bucket of sand to dispose of them.
- If you’re having a bonfire, make sure that there is a distance between it and your home, fence, garage and sheds. Don’t use any petrol or any other type of flammable liquid. If you are having trouble lighting your bonfire, then use household/BBQ firelighters.