Insurers are concerned about the increase in the number of fires as people bring everything that gives off heat into their homes, from wood stoves to appliances, to keep energy bills manageable.
Consumers are flocking to alternative heating systems to keep energy bills manageable. Heat pumps and wood stoves must not be dragged. Electric heaters of all shapes and sizes are connected with extension cords, and even the coal stove is back here and there. Director Richard Weurding of the Dutch Association of Insurers: ,, There are also experiments with candles in clay pots and heating lamps. It’s understandable, but it can end badly if you’re not careful. ”
The Dutch firefighters also point out the dangers and advise regularly sweeping chimneys and not burning wet wood. If the firewood is not dried sufficiently, the deposits in the fireplace will increase and the risk of fire of the fireplace will increase. Many insurers require an annual cancellation of the policy. Anyone who does not and continues to catch fire from the stove runs the risk that an insurer will not reimburse anything.
The Dutch fireplace and stove industry NHK recorded 30% more sales last summer. Wood and pellet stoves are particularly popular. The NHK also stressed the importance of proper installation and a chimney that meets the requirements. The trade association has warned against “small businesses that think they can make a quick buck” charging consumers with installations that are dangerous for fires. ,, You must be aware that you are literally playing with fire, ” says NHK’s Gert Kooij. “I am shocked when I see how people connect the flue pipes themselves. Right through the children’s bedrooms. They are cheap stokers, only the low costs count. Today I told someone on social media: ‘You’re playing with your life’. It is not for nothing that there are fire safety rules that a smoke outlet must respect. The drain through the house must be lined and insulated ”.
Dangerous solar panels if installed incorrectly
Anyone who wants to limit their energy bills with solar panels should also pay attention to whether business is done with a bona fide company, insurers warn. Solar panels can also be a fire hazard if installed incorrectly, such as with wires that are too thin. According to the insurers, it is worth checking whether the companies are affiliated with trade associations and meet the quality requirements.
The warning from insurers comes at a time when the number of home fire claims is plummeting. Last year, the number of claims fell from 67,165 in 2020 to over 59,000. The downward trend that began in 2018 continues. Director Weurding of the Association attributes the favorable development, inter alia, to the fact that the government, insurers, firefighters and the burn foundation have been recalling the importance of prevention, such as the installation of fire detectors, which has recently become a legal obligation. “We also see a decrease in fire damage after New Year’s Eve because heavy fireworks are banned and enforcement is better,” Weurding said.
This year’s annual fire prevention weeks are dominated by fire detectors and the importance of verifying that they work and are in the right place.
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