Homeowners looking to have a fun time on bonfire night should make sure that they put all the necessary precautions in place before getting down to it and having a barney.

This is the opinion of Debra Williams, managing director at price comparison site Confused.com She says that home insurance customers should make sure that they have adequate cover before they think about lighting a fire or setting of a firework.

First and foremost, if you are putting on a display ensure you have sufficient home insurance before lighting a bonfire or setting off fireworks," Ms Williams said.

"Although it is a legal requirement for homeowners to have buildings insurance covering the house and its land against accidental damage, contents insurance is still optional.

"Around bonfire night we'd always advise people to protect their contents with proper cover whether hosting a party or not, even if it means shopping around for a deal at short notice.

"Your home contents policy should provide cover for free standing belongings in both the house and garden which could be accidentally damaged by fire, including that caused by stray fireworks. Contents insurance also covers you should you inadvertently cause damage to your neighbour's garden or any out buildings."

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