As the UK enjoys its sunniest spring on record, households are being reminded to stay alert to the risks of fires in and around the home.

Aviva, one of the UK’s largest insurers, has reported a surge in garden fire claims during April and May, more than in any other month of 2024 so far. The average cost of a garden fire claim, the company revealed, is nearly £16,000.

This alert follows last week’s news that the UK had officially experienced its sunniest spring to date, with the Met Office recording 630 hours of sunshine between 1 March and 27 May. This surpasses the previous record of 626 hours, set in 2020.

Aviva’s data suggests this spike in claims could partly be down to more people spending time outside – enjoying barbecues, lighting bonfires, or using fire pits.

The company also noted a rise in lightning-related claims over the past five years. Lightning strikes, especially to rooftops or lofts, can start fires and damage electrical appliances, sometimes causing them to overheat or fail.

In research carried out by Censuswide on behalf of Aviva in December 2024, involving 2,000 UK participants, 12% said they worry more about fire risks during hot weather, while 13% expressed concern during barbecue season.

Examples of real-life claims included sheds, fences, and decking destroyed by bonfires; a shed catching fire from barbecue embers; and a garage blaze started by ash from a fire pit.

Hannah Davidson, Aviva’s senior underwriting manager, said:
“Although warmer weather is often welcome news, we’re urging people to remain vigilant when it comes to fire safety.
The warm weather, paired with a lack of rain means that once started, a fire can spread very quickly – particularly as the ground is dry.
Popular items in gardens, such as wooden fences and sheds, can be flammable, causing flames to spread quickly. A small fire in the garden can also spread to the home, causing significant damage.
Whether it’s hosting friends for a barbecue, charging devices and tools outside or in the home, or even hanging a mirror outside in your garden for decoration, it’s worth paying close attention to what could become a potential fire hazard.”

Fire safety guidance from Aviva:

Avoid bonfires where possible
They can get out of hand easily, particularly in dry, breezy conditions. If you must have one, never leave it unsupervised and keep water or a hose close at hand. Keep an eye on neighbours’ fires as well in case they pose a risk.

Barbecue safely
Check for windy weather before lighting up – strong gusts can carry hot embers, increasing the fire risk. Ash remains hot long after use, so wait until it’s fully cooled before disposal. Always use disposable barbecues on a non-flammable surface, away from grass, sheds, and fences, and don’t move them until they’re completely cool.

Unplug devices once charged
Lithium-ion batteries can overheat and start fires. Don’t leave chargers plugged in once tools or gadgets are fully charged, and avoid charging overnight or unattended.

Be mindful of windowsills
Sunlight magnified through reflective items like mirrors or bottles can ignite fires. Keep such items out of direct sunlight.

Dispose of cigarettes properly
Cigarettes and matches can easily set fire to dry grass or decking. Make sure they’re fully extinguished and disposed of safely.

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