Hundreds of people will be celebrating bonfire night this week by enjoying the odd sparkler and lighting fireworks in their back garden, but home insurance providers have advised many homeowners to check their home insurance policies to see what is covered in their house in case of a disaster.

Last year, there was an increase of 240 claims during bonfire night period; therefore, homeowners need to take the right precautions to protect their home and contents.

Although most policies cover a rogue firework, insurers are urging people who are thinking about holding their own celebration in their garden to check if their home insurance covers their garden. Fences, greenhouses and sheds are usually covered by building polices but other garden contents may not be.

It has also been advised that homeowners should consider how much their policy will pay if a guest is injured. Most policies have personal liability cover of £1 million.

Karen Torson, product manager stated: “Bonfire Night is a great opportunity to invite friends and family over but it's also a time of year when accidents can happen, so if you're thinking of having a bonfire, it's advisable to know in advance what your policy does and doesn't cover.”

Torson also suggested that people should consider home security as burglaries are popular during bonfire night: “'Home security is another important issue. If you're holding a large gathering, people are likely to be in and out of your garden while you enjoy the firework display. In all the planning and preparation, people often forget to lock their doors and put on their alarms, leaving the ideal opportunity for burglars to enter a noisy accessible environment, without even being noticed.”