Police warn to stay on guard at home
- Fri 4th Jan 2008
Police in Havant are urging residents to be vigilant and issuing advice based on statistics which show a rise in distraction burglaries in the Havant district at this time of year.
There were 11 distraction burglaries at homes in the Havant district between January 1 2007 and February 11 2007.
Detective Inspector Gary Hill of the Central Operational Command Unit’s Priority Crime Team, said: “We are issuing this advice based on statistics which show a trend in distraction burglaries in the Havant district at this time of year. By issuing advice at this time we hope to educate residents on how to avoid becoming a victim of this sort of crime and reduce the number of offences being committed this year.
“Offenders will use a range of excuses to gain access to people’s property, such as pretending they are from utility companies such as the water board.
“It is an under reported crime, often with the victim not being aware of the seriousness of the incident until much later and then being embarrassed to tell others. Hampshire Constabulary would encourage victims to come forward and they will be dealt with sensitively.
“We are asking neighbours, friends and families of those who are vulnerable to this sort of crime to help us. If you see any suspicious people in the area, call the police immediately and take a note of their description and any vehicle detail’s. Speak to your neighbour or loved one and encourage them to avoid leaving large amounts of money in their home and encourage them to ask for proof of identity before letting any unexpected callers into their homes.
“If you are suspicious of a caller at your house, phone the police immediately. The public can help by reporting people and vehicles seen visiting the elderly or vulnerable, a registration number can be pivotal in catching offenders. We all need to work together to protect the vulnerable in our communities.”
As part of Hampshire Constabulary’s Safer Homes Campaign, officers are offering advice and urging residents to take simple precautions to avoid becoming a victim of distraction burglary:
Burglars can fool you into thinking they are genuine callers. Don't be the one who invites them in. If in doubt, keep them out!
• Stop – are you expecting anyone to call on you? Do you know the person at the door? Don’t be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
• Check – A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it. Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from, don’t accept a number from the caller.
• Chain – fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.
If you turn anyone away from your home because they could not provide you with a genuine reason for being there, or you are suspicious of callers in your area, contact the police.
You can contact your local police station on 0845 045 45 45. In an emergency always dial 999.
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