Home insurance data shows cost of unsafe BBQs

Britons have caused over £296 million of damage to their home and gardens, which could result in a claim on their home insurance.

The figures, which are based on Halifax's home insurance claims data for 2005, show that the average cost of a barbeque accident is £148.

However, almost a quarter of a million Britons have caused between £500 - £2500 damage to their property, resulting in home insurance claims.

The research also shows that 1.7 million UK residents have used petrol to light their barbeque, 1.2 million have used aerosols and 600,000 have used perfume.

Vicky Emmott, senior underwriter at Halifax home insurance, commented: Millions of Britons risk the health and safety of themselves and their guests by using potentially lethal accelerants to light barbeques.

With the Met office forecasting a wet summer it is vital that people who wish to press ahead with hosting BBQs do not resort to lighting them with combustible or explosive materials.

According to figures from the Department of Trade and Industry home safety network, 1,000 barbeque fires become out of control each year, highlighting the need for adequate home insurance cover.