Residents are being invited to a special event offering handy hints to help slam the door on bogus callers and rogue traders.
Police Scotland, East Dunbartonshire Council and the Royal Bank of Scotland have teamed up to host a thought-provoking session at Bearsden Baptist Church on Tuesday 27 February.
It includes a performance of a cautionary comedy called 'One Foot in the Door' by Baldy Bane Theatre - featuring useful advice, handy tips and lots of laughs.
The play tells the story of three residents who are visited by three dodgy characters over the course of one day. How will they fare against the would-be thieves - especially if they are given a second chance?
A light lunch will be provided. The event begins at 10.30am and is due to end at 2.30pm.
Thomas Glen, the Council's Depute Chief Executive - Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets, said, "Our Trading Standards team works closely with Police Scotland and a range of partners to help raise awareness and provide advice on avoiding bogus callers and rogue traders.
"Community events such as this one are a great way for people to access information and advice, as well as providing an opportunity to socialise and enjoy a high-quality production."
Police Constable John Robertson, from Police Scotland, said, "One crime of this nature is one too many. Although this type of crime can affect anyone, criminals tend to target the more elderly members of the community due to their perceived vulnerability.
"By working together we can help prevent this type of crime, I hope as many people as possible can come along to the event on 27 February.
"We would urge anyone with any information, or who observes anything suspicious, to report it to Police Scotland on 101 as soon as possible."
For more information, visit www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe and www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/residents/trading-standards
Advice to avoid doorstep crime
- Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly
- Keep front and back doors locked
- Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door
- Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door
- Don’t feel embarrassed - genuine callers expect you to be careful
- Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine
- Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company or organisation to verify their identity.
- Some companies offer a password system. Ask your utility providers if this can be used and if you have a password with a company, make sure the caller uses it.
- Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.
- Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.
- Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
- Never give cold callers your bank account details or any other personal information
- Remember, it’s your home. There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.
- If you have any concerns, call the Police on 101 or Trading Standards on 0300 123 4510.
Advice on spotting a rogue trader:
- They may call at your home, unsolicited - telling you the work is urgent and needs to be carried out immediately
- They will often ask for payment there and then and may offer to come to the bank with you if you don’t have the cash at hand
- If you have any concerns, call the Police on 101 or Trading Standards on 0300 123 4510.
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