Distraction Burglaries - Advice for Prevention

There were a further three distraction burglaries on May 1st, one in Bedworth and two in Rugby - involving men claiming to be investigating water supply problems.
Detectives are investigating other incidents throughout the county where callers, claiming to be from the "Water Board" have gained access to peoples homes saying, among other things, that they need to check the water pressure, check the water system or turn the water off because of a leak further down the road.

Unfortunately the callers have turned out to be bogus and the householders, who are usually elderly, have lost valuables including jewellery, watches, and money.
Bogus callers can be male, female, young or old and they may work alone, or as a team.

The range of excuses they will give to trick their way into homes are varied.
They may pretend to be from one of the other utility companies (Gas, electricity, water, telephone), or they may pretend to be looking for someone who used to live in the area. They may say they have lost something (like a football or a pet dog / cat) in the garden, or could say they have broken down, or they are not feeling well. These are just some of the ruses that have been used in recent weeks to get into peoples homes.

Please ensure that elderly and vulnerable neighbours are aware of the Doorstep Code:

Always keep the front door and back door closed and locked, even when you are at home.
Always close downstairs windows if you move to another room in the house.
Always put the security chain on the door before opening it to callers, even if you are expecting them.
Ask the caller for their identification card.
Take the card from them to examine it closely (still with the chain on the door).
If you have any doubts find a telephone number in the directory and ring the company they claim to be from.
Do not use the number on the card as this could be answered by an associate.
If you have any doubts ask the caller to make an appointment to come back, when you can have a friend or neighbour with you.
Genuine callers will not mind waiting while you make these checks.
Remember, you do not have to let a stranger into your home, even if they say it is an emergency.

If you need further advice or have information relating to recent distraction burglaries please contact your local police. Please also remain vigilent and report anything out of the ordinary..