Home Insurance Blog

When we light up the jack-o-lanterns are we putting ourselves at risk?

October 21, 2008 — According to the 3 year U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) study on Halloween fires, during the three days around Halloween there were 15,500 fires causing $92 million in property loss, 45 deaths and 175 injuries. The research also shows that open flame fires increase by 50 percent during this time period due to the increased use of candles.

“To prevent the spike in open-flame fire claims each year around October 31^st, homeowners should take necessary safety precautions.  These include using battery powered candles as opposed to open flame candles for jack-o-lanterns and other Halloween decorations”, said Carlos Lagomarsino, CEO for HomeInsurance.com.   

Because of the increased incidences of mischief on Halloween night, it is not surprising that a great deal of these fires are associated with suspicious behavior and arson.  The USFA reports that of the Halloween arson fires, it is estimated that 20 percent involve drugs or alcohol most likely attributed to holiday partying.

DATA SOURCE: USFA

Tips to help prevent home fires this Halloween:

·         Use battery powered candles to light up Jack-o-lanterns as opposed to open flame candles

·         If you must use candles, never leave them unattended

·         Make sure that decorations such as streamers, corn stalks and scarecrows are not able to be blown into open flames

·         Keep the front of your home well-lit to discourage mischievous behavior

If you experience a fire or or need to file any other type of home insurance claim, contact your home insurance company immediately.