Residents Told How to 'Give Bogus Callers the Boot'
A security information morning was held at the picturesque John Hunt Homes in Fulford as United Utilities’ began work to replaced 322m of old metal gas pipes with safer, modern plastic pipe on behalf of the region’s gas pipeline owner, Northern Gas Networks.
The event was organised by Untied Utilities’ Customer Liaison Officer, Amanda White after hearing that residents had been targeted by tricksters in the past leaving them scared and confused about who to answer the door to. One incident saw a bogus utility worker barge into the home of a 102 year old lady to steal her handbag.
The briefing from United Utilities was aimed at helping the residents to deal confidently with callers and was based on four simple security rules:
Lock: Keep your front and back doors locked, even when in the house.
Stop: Think, are you expecting anyone? Look through the spy-hole or the window to see who it is – do not just open the door.
Chain: If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or bar on first.
Check: Ask to see an identity card. All United Utilities workers carry ID cards and will show them whenever asked. If you are still concerned call us on 0191 511 6918 to verify the person’s details.
United Utilities Amanda White said: “We want people to feel confident enough to deal with callers in a secure and safe way so that the tricksters never get through the door. You should never be afraid to ask to see ID and remember that a real utility worker will be more than happy to show it to you.”
Sergeant Andy Haigh from North Yorkshire Police said: “Events like this are an important way of communicating directly with vulnerable people about the dangers associated with opening your door to callers without thinking first. It also demonstrates our commitment to partnership working, with organisations like United Utilities, to improve safety in the community.”
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