School bags jam-packed with technology

School bags jam-packed with technology

Students aren’t the only ones with back to school blues this year with some reports finding that increasing technology demands contribute to hefty costs which families are struggling to pay.

The cost of furnishing students’ technology needs has prompted AMI Insurance to investigate what needs to be done to make sure expensive purchases are protected.

In conjunction with IAG, the insurer looked at data from an online Facebook poll to uncover that, of children or teens who go to school in New Zealand:

• 73 per cent carry a smart phone;
• 27 per cent carry a laptop;
• 24 per cent carry a tablet computer;
• 15 per cent carry an MP3 Player; and
• 4 per cent carry a smart watch;

AMI’s General Manager Claims Ruth Colenso said theft or loss of small, high value technology is an increasing issue for insurers and is reminding parents to ensure these valuables are protected when taken outside the home.

“Technology is more and more a central part of the classroom and how we communicate with family and friends,” Ms Colenso said.

“Students can find themselves in situations or locations where their items or backpack may be lost or stolen, or damaged by accident. When you think about the cost of replacing these technology items, parents could be up for hundreds if not thousands of dollars.”

Leaking drink bottles, accidental drops, theft and backpacks being run over are just some of the ways school student’s technology has been lost or damaged in the past year, according to claims data from AMI.

Over 38 per cent of respondents also indicated students are walking around with more than one technology device, making school backpacks a potential treasure trove for thieves.

“With the demand for students to have access to personal technology increasing we would encourage parents to make sure it’s protected should the worst happen,” Ms Colenso said.

AMI Insurance recommends customers check with their insurer to see whether they have cover under their home contents insurance for valuable items taken outside of the home, and to take advantage of opportunities to keep their children safe on the way to school, such as participating in Auckland Transport’s Walking School Bus Week from 15-19 February.

ends

© Scoop Media