HARTFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 16, 2003--Fire is the
second most frequent cause of large homeowners property claims,
according to a recent analysis of claims incidence at Travelers
Property Casualty (NYSE: TAP.A and TAP.B). "In our experience, one of
every three losses over $10,000 is fire-related," says Peter
McMurtrie, Vice President, Claim Services.
Overall, fire is the cause of one out of every 25 homeowners
property claims at Travelers, demonstrating that fire results in some
of the most extensive losses. "In the winter, and especially at
holiday time, people tend to increase their use of candles,
fireplaces, wood stoves, and electrical decorations that can lead to
fires in the home," adds McMurtrie. "We'd like to remind everyone of a
few simple precautions they can take to protect their families and
homes from a fire-related loss."
Candles
-- Be aware of the placement of candles, keeping them away from
walls, window treatments, papers and other flammable
materials. Place candles on heat-resistant surfaces.
-- Check the label on each candle for proper usage. For example,
it is often recommended that candles not be burned for more
than a few hours at a time, and that candles be extinguished
when the wick is within a half inch from the base.
-- Before lighting, trim the wick to approximately one-eighth of
an inch.
-- Store matches and lighters in a secure location, out of the
reach of children.
-- Do not leave lighted candles unattended; they should be within
your sight at all times.
Fireplaces/Wood Stoves
-- Be sure that ashes are completely cool before removing them
from your fireplace. Use a metal pail or can to transport
ashes. Where available, use the clean-out chute located in the
fireplace to dispose of ashes.
-- Have your chimney professionally cleaned once each year.
-- Before lighting a fire, check that the flue is open to avoid
smoke damage.
-- Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby.
Holiday Decorations
-- Check all electrical decorations for potential fire hazards
such as frayed wires or loose connections.
-- Do not overload outlets, extension cords or surge protectors.
-- Check location of lights to ensure they are not in contact
with flammable materials.
-- Carefully read decoration instructions regarding maximum
voltage.
-- Use UL-approved electrical decorations and accessories.
-- Regularly water fresh Christmas trees that are placed in the
home.
Travelers policyholders who experience a loss should immediately
report their claim to Travelers at 1-800-CLAIM-33 (1-800-252-4633) for
assistance. Travelers claim professionals are available 24 hours a
day, 365 days a year.
"Protecting Your Home In All Seasons," a brochure featuring
year-round home safety tips is available through Travelers independent
agents. "Hidden Hazards" fire prevention tips are available at
www.travelers.com and additional homeowner educational and safety
information is available in the "Home Insurance" section at
www.travelerspc.com/personal/home/ including a fire safety game for
children.
About Travelers Property Casualty
Travelers Property Casualty (NYSE: TAP.A and TAP.B) is a leading
provider of a wide range of insurance products. Travelers is the third
largest commercial lines insurer, providing a broad range of insurance
products including workers compensation, integrated disability,
property, liability, specialty lines, surety bonds, inland/ocean
marine, and boiler and machinery. The company is the second largest
writer of homeowners and auto insurance through independent agents.
For more information on Travelers products, see www.travelers.com.
SUBJECT: TAPA, TAPB, TAP.A, TAP.B, TAPa, TAPb, TAP.a, TAP.b,
TAP/A, TAP/B, TAP/a, TAP/b
CONTACT: Travelers Property Casualty
Jennifer Wislocki, 860-277-7458
SOURCE: Travelers Property Casualty Corp.