Distraction burglary

Distraction burglary

Dear Resident

A distraction burglary has recently been reported in your area. Here’s some crime prevention advice that can be shared with family, friends, neighbours and anyone who may be more vulnerable to such scams.

Burglars won't go to the trouble of breaking in if they can just knock and be invited in. So always be on your guard when anyone you're not expecting - a man, a woman or even a child - turns up at your door.

Bogus 'officials' may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, gas board, health authority or other organisation.

Bogus 'dealers' may offer to buy your antiques, furniture or jewellery, at what seems to be a good price.

If you want to sell something, choose one or two genuine dealers to value it or ask a friend or relative for their advice.

Bogus 'workmen' may say that they need to come in to check something or make urgent repairs. You also need to be careful of callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac your drive. Often, they'll ask for money in advance; they may even offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money to pay them.

If you need any building work done, get several written quotes from reputable firms, then decide which one is best. If in doubt, talk it through with a neighbour or someone in your family.

Genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry identification with their photograph on.

REMEMBER! If someone calls at your door:

Check to see who it is through your spyhole or look through a front window.

Always put the chain on before you open the door, keep this on until you have confirmed the caller is official.

Check to see if the callers have a uniform bearing their organisation's name or symbol.

Does the caller have ID or confirmation paperwork? Check this carefully, genuine callers won't mind if you close the door while you do this.

Ensure your back door is locked if you are answering the door to someone you don't know.

What to do if you feel intimidated or suspicious:

Trust your instincts, your safety is the most important.

Do not invite the caller in or ask them to come back later so you can confirm their identity with their organisation.

Call your neighbours and friends for support if in doubt.

Call the police on 999 in an emergency or 101 if you want to report suspicious activity.

Never let anyone in unless you are sure they are genuine.

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Message Sent By
Rose Hardy
(West Midlands Police, Engagement and Consultation Officer, Sandwell Partnerships)