Beware of unexpected callers – Ringmaster message
THIS is a Ringmaster message from Thames Valley Police.
Over the last few weeks several reports have been received from Thame residents concerning workmen & sales people cold calling, touting for work (typically tree work) and/or visiting houses for the purpose of reading gas/electricity meters.
The majority of these callers are genuine, however care should be taken when dealing with unexpected callers. Do not allow entry to your home unless you are satisfied the caller is genuine. The following few simple steps could prevent you becoming a victim of crime:
Do not open your door to a stranger before you have verified their identity. If possible look out of a window first to see who is there and speak to them through the window.
Ask for their identity. If they are genuine they will not mind. Do not just give their identity card a cursory glance. Take your time and read the details. Do not telephone any number on the identity card to verify who the person is. Look up the telephone number of the company they represent yourself in the phone book or via directory enquiries and then make the call. It doesn’t matter how long this takes. If the caller is genuine he/she will be happy to wait.
If you cannot satisfy yourself that the caller is genuine do not open the door. Telephone the police on 08458 505 505 and report the details or call 999 for emergencies.
