An insured saves newspapers and keeps them neatly stacked in the family room, near the fireplace. What are these newspapers considered?

The newspapers being stored near the fireplace are considered a physical hazard. A physical hazard refers to any condition or object that increases the chance of loss or injury due to physical presence or characteristics. In this scenario, the newspapers, when stacked in close proximity to a heat source like a fireplace, create a heightened risk of a fire hazard. Their combustible nature combined with their location physically increases the danger associated with a fire.

While other options like hazardous materials and environmental hazards could suggest risks, they do not accurately describe the specific risk that arises from the physical arrangement of these newspapers. Their very presence and location make them a physical hazard, as they can contribute to a greater likelihood of fire or damage to property.