2 June 2008: Bogus callers beware!

Media: 1004

Lewes District Crime Reduction Partnership is giving useful advice to residents on how to keep safe when approached by ‘bogus callers’.

Chief Inspector Natalie Carron said:  “Most people who call at your home will be genuine but sometimes people turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home. You should always be aware when someone you don’t know calls at your door. They can be convincing and often persuasive.

They may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, energy or water company.  They use ruses, such as telling you they have been doing work on water pipes in your area and need you to nip upstairs and check the bathroom taps are running. While your back is turned, they target any valuables they can find.”

Distraction burglaries are rare, but when they do occur they cause considerable distress to the victim. They also often target vulnerable people, such as the elderly or those who live alone.

If anyone calls at your door, remember the key to keeping safe is:
LOCK, STOP, CHAIN, CHECK

LOCK: Always keep front and back doors locked even when you are in the house.
STOP: Before you answer the door, stop and think whether you are expecting anyone.
CHAIN: Put the door bar or chain on. Look through the spy hole or the window to see who it is. Always keep the bar or chain on while you are talking to the person on the doorstep.
CHECK:  Always ask callers for their identity card, even if they have a prearranged appointment. Genuine callers always carry identity and will never be offended by being asked to show it. Look in the phone book or on a recent bill for the company’s number and phone to check the person at your door does work for them. 
If in doubt, keep them out!

Chief Inspector Carron adds: “If you have any doubts about the caller, or if they aren’t carrying an identity card, do NOT let them in. You can always ask them to get their company to arrange another time to visit, when you can have someone with you in the house. I would stress, however, that these crimes are very rare. 

In the last year in Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven, Peacehaven and Telscombe and the rural areas, there were only 15 such cases.  By following the advice we are giving, you can help us to stamp out this kind of crime.”

If you witness an attempted distraction burglary happening, call 999. To report suspicions to the police you can call the non-emergency number 0845 60 70 999 and ask to speak to your neighbourhood policing team. Their details are also on http://www.sussex.police.uk/

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