Homeowners are being warned that the risk of household fires increases significantly at Christmas time.

Insurance provider More Than is urging people to take extra care when cooking and using candles over the festive period.

The number of homes damaged by fire is set to increase by 180 per cent over Christmas, the company revealed.

Annette Lepper, head of home insurance at More Than, commented: "Christmas Day is a time for enjoyment, friends and family. We would encourage homeowners to take a few simple precautions to make sure that you don't let a fire ruin your celebration."

Homeowners are advised to keep tinsel and decorations away from heat sources and to turn off outside lights overnight.

In related news, Halifax is urging property owners to keep their houses secure this Christmas.

A recent poll by the company revealed that 30 per cent of rural householders leave their doors open during the day.

Homeowners may wish to consider using self storage facilities for their valuable belongings.

Written by Emily Sanders