Don't be caught out by bogus callers

Sussex Police says distraction burglaries, where criminals call at homes posing as officials or asking for help, tend to rise at this time of year as the weather warms up. But by following simple advice, Rother residents can keep themselves safe and help catch the criminals.

• STOP – were you expecting them? Had they made an appointment?

• CHAIN – Secure the door bar or chain before opening the door

• CHECK – do they have identification?

Inspector James Scott, of Bexhill Police, said: “Burglary in Rother is low, but we want to reduce it even further. There are simple steps that residents can take to help us and keep themselves safe. Being aware of the tactics of distraction burglary will enable residents to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.”

The advice from Sussex Police includes looking to see who is there before opening the door, using a door chain or bar until the caller’s ID is checked, and checking that a back door is locked before going to the front door.

Sometimes offenders operate in pairs, enabling one to enter properties at the rear while another uses distraction tactics at the front.

Insp Scott said: “We encourage residents to trust their instincts – if you have any doubt that the caller is genuine, don’t let them in. Take the time to make a phone call to the company they claim to be representing; a genuine caller won’t mind waiting.”

Report any suspicious callers, even if they were not let in, by calling Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999. (In an emergency, call 999.)

• To find out more about how the Safer Rother Partnership is reducing crime in Rother, visit the community safety pages at www.rother.gov.uk