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NEWS - Distraction Burglaries |
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Please be aware that have been 2 very recent distraction burglaries in the Stonehouse and Paganhill areas of the district. Whilst we do not want to worry anyone, the Neighbourhood Wardens and PCSO’s will be delivering leaflets, which can be given out to residents to provide them with information and advice. Please also feel free to display the crime prevention advice below. Thank you. The M.O. for these offences is individuals acting as water board officials to gain entry – with all offences occurring during daylight hours. Whilst arrests have been made, it is important that we remind our vulnerable residents as to the threat of Liberal (distraction) offences. Stocks of Call a Friend cards (see below) and Bogus Caller leaflets are available from Community Safety 01453 754514. Crime Prevention Advice: If you’re not sure who is at your door, don’t open it. Check the identity of the caller by calling the company they are purporting to be from, i.e. gas, electricity, water etc. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider – DO NOT use any telephone numbers provided by the caller – these may be bogus. Telephone a neighbour or a friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them. The Stroud Safer Community Partnership operates a ‘Call a Friend’ scheme. The scheme is simply a card which is kept next to the telephone, and can hold up to 2 nominated friends contact details who can be contacted if a stranger comes to the door. The Community Safety Service hold a stock of these cards which are free of charge – 01453 754947. Many service providers operate a password scheme, so please sign up to these. When strangers call at your door they should know the password if they are genuine. The ‘Water Board’ no longer exists, it is obsolete phrase used only by bogus callers. Don’t keep large quantities of cash at home, put it in the bank where it is safe. Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times. Ensure that you do let somebody in to your home, and close the door behind them – distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst the others sneak in through insecure doors. If someone asks for help i.e. needs to use your telephone, lost ball in the garden, needs a drink for example, refer them to another younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door. Alternatively, call a friend or neighbour to assist. Not sure? Don’t open the door. |
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