Most people who call at your home will be genuine. Sometimes people turn up unannounced with the intention of tricking their way into your home. They are known as distraction burglars or bogus callers.
Their only aim is to get into your home to distract you and steal your money or valuables.
You should always be aware if someone you do not know calls at your door. By using this advice you can protect yourself and vulnerable members of your family.
Bogus callers may be smartly dressed and claim to be from Eastbourne Homes, Eastbourne Borough Council, the Police, health organisations, gas, water or electricity companies. They can be convincing and persuasive. They may be men, women or even children. They may ask for a drink of water or to wash their hands. Some may be looking for a lost pet.
They often use things like an identity card or wear overalls with a company logo. If you are expecting a caller, remember to check their identification very carefully against the letter you have been sent.
If you are in any doubt, keep them out!
These official visitors should always arrange an appointment with you beforehand. If you are not expecting them and you are alone, ask them to call back when you have someone with you or to contact you by letter to arrange a convenient time to visit. Do not keep large amounts of money in your home.
The Home Office advice is to remember the following to keep yourself and your home safe - LOCK, STOP, CHAIN, CHECK.
Lock
Keep your front and back doors locked when you are at home.
Stop
Before you answer, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Check that your back door is locked. Look through the spyhole or window to see who it is.
Chain
If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or bar on first. Keep the bar or chain on while you are talking to the person on the doorstep. Normally when your door is closed and locked and you are at home leave the bar or chain off in case you need to get out in an emergency.
Check
Ask for and carefully check their identity card, even if they have a prearranged appointment. All genuine callers will carry an identity card and will not mind waiting while you verify their identity. Do they look like the person on the card? Is the name the same as the one on your letter? Close the door while you make your checks.
Door Bars and Chains
If you have not already got a door bar or chain fitted, you should think about getting one. A door bar only costs a few pounds and is easier to use than a chain. However, if you have PVC doors a bar can sometimes be difficult to fit. Check with the manufacturer before you buy a PVC door and always ask for a bar to be fitted. A door bar or chain acts as a useful barrier when talking to unexpected callers. It is a worthwhile investment.
Report Bogus Callers
If you think a bogus caller has called at your door please report it to the police immediately - dial 999 and tell them what has happened. Try to give the police a description of the person. While they are on their way, tell a neighbour, caretaker or Neighbourhood Watch Representative just in case they try at other homes in the area. The earlier the police know that bogus callers are working in the area the quicker they can investigate.
CrimeStoppers
If you have any information about bogus callers you can call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 - your call is free, you are not asked for your name and you may receive a reward.
