Houses in the UK are at their most vulnerable to damage during the Christmas holidays, a new survey has claimed.
The lighting of over-boozed Christmas puddings caused 409,000 house fires last year and is just one of a number of threats posed to homes and contents at this time of year.
Research by Sainsbury's Home Insurance found that over four million people reported £7.2 billion worth of damage to their homes occurring at Christmas since 2000.
Over-loading power points with fairy lights and fan heaters, over-zealous party guests and the ever-present problem of frozen pipes also make home insurance a for a worry-free Christmas.
The survey also found that 1.57 million households have been damaged during Christmas by overexcited children and adults that have had one drink too many.
Home insurance manager at Sainsbury's Bank, Karen Preston said, "The festive season should be one of the highlights of the year for most people, but the number of insurance claims made in December can often increase, partly because of damage caused by bad weather or Christmas related accidents in the home.
"Before the celebrations begin, people should ensure that their homes are protected as well as possible from bad weather and festive calamities," she added.
Sainsbury's also recommends moving delicate objects out of the reach of children, never leaving the cooker unattended and keeping candles away from Christmas trees.
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