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Around 4.1 million Britons are jetting off for extended winter breaks of at least 30 days or more over the next 12 months, leaving their homes unoccupied.

Sainsbury’s Home Insurance warns that if they are burgled they may not be covered because 36% of home insurance policies don’t provide cover once a property has been left empty for a month or more. In contrast to this, Sainsbury’s Home Insurance offers 60 days’ unoccupancy cover as standard.

Home security is not a major concern for people in the UK over the Christmas period - as basic guidance such as keeping valuables out of sight goes out the window when the Christmas tree goes up.

Research by Direct Line Home Insurance reveals that one in four people keep their newly-acquired gifts under the Christmas tree, where burglars are most likely to look. A further 74% keep them in an unsecured wardrobe or cupboard which, while safer than under the tree, is still one of the more common storage spots likely to attract a burglar’s attention.

The number of domestic burglaries rose 2.8% in the three months to the end of June this year compared to the same period last year.

Yet despite this, analysis from Sainsbury’s Home Insurance reveals that during the same period, the number of home insurance claims for theft, which includes domestic burglaries and thefts of items such as bicycles from outside the home, decreased by 13%.

Broker Towergate Risk Solutions Poole today warned of the dangers of Bonfire night as many people prepare to set off fireworks and light up the bonfire as part of the 5 November celebrations.

Joe Thewell MD of Towergate Risk Solutions Poole warned,

"If you are planning a bonfire party this year it is essential that you are prepared for the night.  Make sure you are fully insured and also that you and your guests know the correct safety procedures - for yourself, your fellow fire-workers, and also your property. Every year there is a large amount of damage caused to property which can lead to financial implications if you do not have adequate insurance cover".