In view of the recent distraction burglaries which have occurred in our village, I thought it an appropriate time to remind people of the steps which can be taken to reduce this despicable crime.

Most people who call at your home are genuine, but some "distraction burglars" can turn up at your home with the intention of tricking their way indoors so that they or an accomplice can steal any cash or valuables that they can find (usually in the bedroom).  A frequent ploy is to claim to be from "The Water Board" or other utilities, health organisations or from the Council Offices.  Any genuine official from these companies will carry an official identity card which they will always produce for your inspection.  If you still have doubts about the caller, take their card and ask them to wait outside while you call their office - do not ring the number on the card that the caller has given you as it may be a fake - and check to see if they are genuine or not.  It is a good idea to keep a list of useful telephone numbers like gas, electricity and water services in a handy place.  Many of these now have free phone numbers to help you check the identity of their workers.

If you are not expecting a caller, before opening the front door, check the back door, lock it and take the key with you; then put your door bar or chain on the front door before opening it.  Keep the bar or chain on while you are talking to the caller. If, after these checks, you have any doubts about the caller, especially if they have called unnannounced, tell them to call back later when someone can be with you.  (I have a few Nominated Neighbour Packs available which would be useful in these circumstances).

Distraction burglars sometimes work in pairs or even teams.  One will distract the person while the other searches the house for money or other valuables.  They can be men, women or children (or often a combination).  They are always very plausible. Watch out for anyone who says that they are in a hurry.  Don't let them pressure or confuse you.

If you think that a distraction burglar has called at your door, report it to the police immediately - dial 999 and tell them what has happened. Try to give the police a description of the person.  While they are on their way, tell a neighbour, caretaker or Neighbourhood Watch representative just in case they try at other homes in the area.  The earlier the police know that distraction burglars are in the area, the quicker they can investigate.
REMEMBER  - Only let them in if you are absolutely sure that they are genuine.  If you have any doubts - KEEP THEM OUT.

If you would like to have details of neighbourhood Watch please contact.
Clive Stewart, Essex Police, Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator
Braintree District. Tel: 01376 556 282.