As a result, Churchill is warning householders about opportunist burglars, as its research* reveals that 18 per cent of households are planning to buy a new TV and a further five per cent have done so already.

Martin Scott, head of Churchill home insurance explains: “Over half of respondents said they put empty TV boxes straight in the recycling bin and seven per cent put packaging straight in the rubbish as it is. Leaving packaging outside the house advertises the brand new TV to opportunist thieves. Householders are, therefore, unwittingly making public their recent purchases and could increase the chance of a break-in. Ideally, packaging should be disposed of at local recycling points or refuge centres away from the home.”

Thieves are not the only problem facing householders during this World Cup. Scott concludes, “Over a third of households will watch the World Cup with friends or family and a mixture of frayed nerves and exuberant goal celebrations can result in all manner of accidents, from knocking the TV off the wall to damaging furniture and furnishings. Therefore households should ensure they have accidental damage cover on their home insurance should the unexpected happen.”

* Opinium Research carried out an online poll of 2,026 British adults from 7th to 11th May 2010. Results have been weighted to nationally representative criteria.

Churchill

Founded in 1989, Churchill is now one of the UK's leading providers of general insurance, offering award-winning car, home, travel and pet insurance cover over the phone or on-line.

Churchill is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK1 and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Customers can find out more about Churchill products or get a quote by calling 0800 200300 or visiting www.churchill.com. Churchill Insurance Company Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: Churchill Court, Westmoreland Road, Bromley, Kent, BR1 1DP. Registered in England and Wales no.2258947. The Financial Services Authority's Register can be accessed through http://www.fsa.gov.uk/.

1 Based on 2008 FSA returns (policies in force).

View regional here: "Churchill home insurance warns football fans to avoid a TV drama"