Help police beat the bogus callers (From Congleton Guardian)

Help police beat the bogus callers

3:40pm Friday 12th December 2008

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CONGLETON police officers are asking everyone to do their bit to help beat doorstep crime.

Bogus official teams who call at the homes of elderly and vulnerable people to steal cash and valuables are active at this time of year.

Also doing the rounds are rogue traders who offer to carry out work for a set fee, and then increase the charges dramatically, often without doing the work.

Police are stressing a few simple measures can defeat these criminals.

Do not keep large sums of money in your home.

Keep your front and back doors locked, even when at home.

Be wary when anyone calls at your home unexpectedly.

Always use a door chain when answering the door.

Always ask for and check identification of people claiming to be from a company or organisation.

If callers are genuine they will expect this, and be happy to provide ID.

Official visitors should always arrange an appointment with you beforehand.

If you are still unsure of their identity ask them to wait while you call the company they claim to be representing.

Do not rely on a number they give you - it could be false.

If you are still not satisfied call the police immediately.

Police have provided a list of useful phone numbers.

Police non-emergency - 0845 458 0000; Consumer Direct 08454 04 05 06; Fire 01606 868700; United Utilities 0845 746 2200; E-on general enquiries 0800 052 0346 - Sales agent verification 0800 056 6278; Npower field sales 0845 601 1102 - meter readers 0800 073 3355; British Gas meter readers - MSL 0800 169 4667, Accuread 0800 393 499, Siemens 0800 015 2221; British Gas field sales advisers 0800 300 100; British Gas engineers 0845 736 5100; Emergency gas escape 0800 111 999.

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