The HandyVan scheme is available to provide and fit free security and safety products for people of pensionable age - contact your crime prevention officer or Claire on 01255 434441. Although this is a rare crime, bogus callers will try all sorts of tricks to get into properties, pretending to be officials from the Water or Electricity Board or other companies. It is better not to let anybody in, unless you are expecting them, and in any event, always check their credentials - if they are genuine they won t mind if you check their identity with their company. It is worth noting your service account numbers and keeping them near the front door so you can confirm whether meter readers are genuine. Don t forget you can always arrange for a password to be used.
Bogus callers are good at what they do - and that is conning people.
Their story is always believable and can range from informing you that you have a water leak to selling you a carpet. Arrange for them to return when someone is present. Don t carry valuables or excessive cash with you unless you absolutely have to. Keep your house keys separate from your cash and anything with your address on it. Community Watch You can make a difference by joining a community watch, neighbourhood watch or by setting up a cocoon watch with your neighbours.