Distraction burglary

I understand, from the local Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, that there has been an increase in the number of "distraction burglaries" recently - when someone enters your house pretending to be someone in authority.

Most of the incidents recently involved male callers frightening elderly people into believing that there was a problem with their water supply.

Anyone who IS official will carry an ID card and will not mind if you keep the chain on your door while you check their card. The card will carry an official phone number that you can phone to check.

Most of the bogus callers recently have said "WE ARE FROM THE WATERBOARD". This area of Essex is supplied with water by the Essex & Suffolk Water Company. The "water board" no longer exists. They do not call unless requested and when they do they produce a bona-fide Identity card.

You should report any suspicious activity IMMEDIATELY to the police on 999 / 112.

More information about Neighbourhood Watch on the Springfield website or the national neighbourhoodwatch.net