Insurers' nerves will be jangling tomorrow as fireworks bang and zoom up and down the country on Guy Fawkes night.

Concerns are wide ranging. Zurich Insurance Company points out that Bonfire Night is when most burglars like to get out to ply their trade.

A survey by the company shows that on November 5, there are 54% more burglaries than the daily average of 2,206.

Meanwhile, HSBC Bank and the Royal Society for Prevention are publishing leaflet Barbecues, Bonfires and Bangers to "help prevent some of the 800 accidents that take place each year".

It advises us to: "Have bonfires away from wooden fences; don't pour petrol or meths on to barbecues or fires; follow the firework code".

And Lawclub Legal Protection advises the public: "Don't give sparklers to children under five; only those over 18 can buy fireworks."

Over at the DTI, consumer affairs minister Kim Howells added: "Fireworks and alcohol are an explosive combination – they just don't mix."


The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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