Crime prevention advice

Bogus callers

Burglars won't go to the trouble of breaking in if they can just knock and be invited in. So always be on your guard when anyone you're not expecting - a man, a woman or even a child - turns up at your door.

Bogus callers often target the vulnerable so remember to tell your elderly relatives about the doorstep code.

• Bogus 'officials' may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, a gas company, health authority or other organisation. Their real purpose is to talk their way into your home to see what they can steal.
• Bogus 'workmen' may say that they need to come in to make urgent repairs. Again, they really want to steal from your house. You also need to be careful of callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac your drive. Often they'll ask for money in advance; they may even offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money to pay them. They could then simply disappear, or do a poor job very expensively.

If you need any building work done, get several written quotes from reputable firms, then decide which one is best. If in doubt, talk it through with a neighbour or someone in your family.

Genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry identification with their photograph on it. If you are unsure of who they are – do not let them into your home – genuine callers will not mind waiting while you check their identity.

Advice is to follow the DOORSTEP Code:

• Don't open the door without using the Doorstep Code
• Observe first - always look through a window or door viewer
• Only open the door after connecting a chain or limiter
• Refuse entry if you are not satisfied
• Switch on outside lights when it's dark to see who's there
• Think 'thief' - ask to see an identity card and check it closely
• Ensure strangers are not left alone in your home
• Protect yourself - if you are worried ring the police.

View Dan the Distraction burglar.

Nominated Neighbour Scheme

A pack has been designed to give to elderly or vulnerable persons help to combat distraction burglary or bogus caller crime.

The Nominate Neighbour pack contains advice on dealing with unknown callers at the door and a card to show to any stranger that calls on them via a closed window.

The card informs the caller, without opening the door, that they are not recognised or expected, and requests them to go to a nominated neighbour’s house.

The visitor should then go to the neighbour's house and they can then accompany the visitor and wait with the householder until the caller has finished at the house.

For further information please contact your local Crime Reduction Officer on 0845 4567000.