Dealing with danger at the door

22 April 2010

Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes people turn up unannounced and try to trick their way into your home to steal your valuables and money. These are known as 'distraction burglars' and 'bogus callers'.

They may work alone, in pairs and could be male or female. Children are also sometimes used to trick their way in to people's houses.

When a stranger rings your bell, be cautious. Are you expecting anyone?

Representatives from water, gas and electric companies rarely make house calls without appointments. If there is a real gas or water emergency, police and firefighters are likely to be present.

There are some simple precautions you can take to help ensure you don't become a victim.

Lock your back doors and windows before answering your front door - thieves are known to work in pairs, one entering through the back door while the other knocks at the front.

Use a spyhole and ask who the caller is through the door first then keep the door on the chain.

Ask for and check carefully their identification, even if they have a pre-arranged appointment. Genuine callers will carry a card from the organisation they represent.

If you are not expecting the caller and they do not carry an ID card, do not let them in.

To check a caller is genuine you can look up the number in the phone book or a recent bill and check it against the card the caller has given you. Do not just ring the number on the card - it may be fake.

If you have any doubts about whether the caller is genuine, ask them to leave and come back at a time that is convenient to you and when you have had a chance to ask someone to be with you.

Never leave your front door unattended. If you need glasses to read identification or need to go to another room for anything, close the door.

If you think you have a bogus caller at your door, dial 999.