This Festive season, residents are being reminded to be more aware of callers to the door with visitors being more frequent.
Detective Sergeant James Byrne said: “Never trust anyone calling at the door without a prior appointment. Should you receive such a call, leave the door locked. The caller will hear you through the door when you ask them who they are. If they state they are from a utilities company, ask for your account number, they should have this if they are genuine, if not – do not let them in and tell them to leave and that you are calling the police. Do not allow anyone to carry out work on your home, or sell you anything when they cold-call at the door. If you require work to be done INSTIGATE IT YOURSELF, by phoning three companies and asking for like for like quotes. Then decide. Even if someone claims to be an official – check their ID – and that includes police officers and council representatives. Always reports any suspicious behaviour to the police. If you think it is suspicious, it probably is.”
Residents are asked to be vigilant at all times, and follow this advice:
Follow the STOP, CHAIN, CHECK rule when people call at the door.
- STOP – If you are not expecting anybody and they don’t have an appointment, don’t let them in.
- CHAIN – Use your door chain or bar before opening the door
- CHECK – Ask to see ID and double check this.
Keep your doors locked even when you are home, and please remember, there is no such company as the Water Board, Gas Board or Electric Board. These words are only used by offenders, so be alert if they are used by anyone at your door.
If you have not asked for any work to be done, do not engage with anyone claiming to be carrying out work at your home.
Anyone who has information regarding unlawful activities in the county is asked to call Staffordshire Police on 101.
