Don't get distracted

As the warm weather continues, local residents are being reminded by Cheshire East Council's Trading Standards to be extra vigilant over the coming months.

The longer days can result in an increase in cold-callers and the warmer weather can tempt residents to leave windows and doors open.

Bogus callers and distraction burglars often take these opportunities to gain access to a person's home and unscrupulous traders will get their victims to pay for unnecessary but costly work.

Cheshire East Council acknowledges some traders are honest and genuine. However, many people find the process of being cold-called (whether genuine or not) to be intrusive and distressing.

Historically, bogus callers, distraction burglars and rogue traders target the elderly; the vulnerable; those living alone; and those who have recently suffered bereavement.

Examples of bad practices associated with cold calling and doorstep crime include:

• pressure selling;
• unfair contracts;
• overpriced or substandard home maintenance or improvements;
• phoney consumer surveys;
• bogus charity collections; and
• bogus officials

A 'Bogus Caller', also known as a 'Distraction Burglar', is someone who calls at your home unannounced, to trick, distract or lie with the intention of stealing money or valuables.

Cheshire East Councillor, Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for Safer and Stronger Communities said:

"Doorstep crime is a serious and shocking crime which occurs in the place where we all have the right to feel safe: our own homes. Keep yourself safe this summer by ensuring your windows and doors are locked and remember; we all have the right to refuse a cold-caller.

"I would strongly urge local residents to report any suspicious activity to the police and if you have a problem with a doorstep seller, contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06."

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