A combination of tough economic times and a spat of unusually cold winters are being blamed for a double-digit rise in the percentage of home fire claims, according to one major insurer.

An analysis of Nationwide Insurance's claim data turned up significant increases over the past several winters in home fires, which the company said is caused by alternative heating sources, such items as fireplaces, wood burning stoves, and space heaters.

These devices are often used by those looking to reduce their home heating expenses, despite the potential danger. In fact, according to Nationwide, 68 percent of 1,000 people it surveyed said that they plan to use their alternative heating source as much or more often compared to last winter.

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