Doorstep Safety

Now you might wonder what on earth could go wrong simply by answering the doorbell, but you’d be amazed at just how devious individuals can be in their attempts to steal your money or valuables. After all, what burglar is going to go to the hassle of breaking into your home if he/she can distract you, catch you off guard, or even trick you to inviting them in instead?!

Just as the Green Cross Code has helped generations of people across our roads, doorstep safety is no less important, no matter what age you might be. And while most callers are quite genuine, sadly some are not.

Bogus callers or distraction burglars can be quite inventive in how they trick you into letting them through your door. They may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the local council, gas or electricity company or conducting a local survey. They might pose as a local tradesman needing to gain access to your home to make essential checks on meters or make urgent repairs to your guttering. They might call on the off chance to tarmac your drive or cut back your hedges.

They will nearly always quote an “unbelievably low” or time limited offer price and expect you to pay cash up front. Some may even offer to drive you to the nearest cash point in order to take this advance payment. Some will take that opportunity to knock on your door asking to use the toilet or your phone. Would you turn away a child or a pregnant lady? Bogus callers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and there is no age limit. They can appear official and are always believable. Don’t be fooled, just say NO.

Always remember, a genuine caller will always carry some form of photo identification and a number you can call to verify their identity. At Buy As You View, all our Customer Account Managers carry an ID card with the number of our head office should you need to call to check their identity before you let them into your home. Genuine callers will not mind waiting. It’s your home and you don’t have to let anyone in!

When next your door ball rings, follow the following steps:

Step 1 - are you expecting anyone? If in doubt, keep them out!

It sounds simple, but if you don’t let someone in – they will go away. Don’t be pressured into opening the door.

Step 2 – if you have a door chain use it or a spy hole to see who is calling.

Be prepared. Be in control. Think about what you would say to doorstep cold callers in advance. And keep a list of key contact numbers near your phone so you can cross-check the caller’s identity before you let them in. Ask all other unwanted callers to go away.

Step 3 – Check who they say they are

If in doubt, call the company direct. Don’t rely on identification alone. Call a neighbour or the police. Contact a local relative or nominated neighbour who can help verify a cold caller. If you think someone is a rogue trader call 101*. Or to report a distraction burglar or rogue trader who has taken your money and is still in the area, call 999.

For more information, check out our Customer Magazine

*101 is a non-emergency number to report anti-social behaviour which is to be rolled out UK wide from 2012 but is currently in place in the Isle of Wight, Hampshire, Sheffield, Northumbria and all of Wales.