Direct Line encourages adequate home insurance for festive displays

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Friday 1st December 2006

Up to eight million homeowners may need to check that their home insurance covers displays of Christmas lights, according to Direct Line.

The insurance specialist announced the results of research which show nearly £800 million will be spent on outdoor lights this year, but may not be covered by standard policies.

Carmel McCarthy of Direct Line home insurance said: "Homeowners need to make sure theyre covered for any festive decorating."

"Outdoor lights also carry health and safety risks, so people need to remember to take safety precautions," she added.

Direct Line found that 62 per cent of its customers think Christmas lights are the ideal way to get into the spirit of the season.

However, only 16 per cent said that they believe such decorations have an aesthetic benefit for their homes.

Customers may benefit from Direct Lines checklist of safety tips, which includes looking for EU standards on lights, using the correct power cords and plugs and making sure decorations are securely fastened to buildings.

Direct Line is offering free annual travel insurance to customers who purchase both buildings insurance and contents insurance.

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