28/7/10 Awareness

This is a message from Northamptonshire West Police to all residents.

There has been an increase in the number of people receiving unsolicited telephone calls from companies offering the installation of security systems.

Initial contact is made by telephone cold calling residents to arrange appointments.  Whilst the alarms may be free or available at a nominal cost, the ongoing maintenance costs are high and there is a cancellation fee.

We advise that you do not purchase systems from companies cold calling, either on the telephone or at your door. If you are considering investing in an alarm system, we recommend that obtain quotes from at least 3 security companies who are subject to independent inspection by a recognised body, either NSI (The National Security Inspectorate) or SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board).

Anyone experiencing or have been affected by 'cold call' telephone calls in relation to appointments arranging visits promoting the sale of security alarms should ring We We would ask anyone experiencing or affected by 'cold call' telephone calls from companies arranging visits promoting the sale of security alarms, to ring Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or Northamptonshire Trading Standards on 01604 707900.

We would like to remind you, 'If you're not sure, DON'T open the door'.

If you are concerned about a caller at your door or suspect that distraction burglars or rogue doorstep traders are operating in your community, please call our dedicated Doorstep crime Action Network (DAN) number 0345 23 07 702. You can read about the tactics these criminals use at www.northants.police.uk/lookout

** PLEASE REMEMBER: If a crime is in progress you must call 999 **

Please pass this message on to anyone you think may benefit from this information, particularly the vulnerable and elderly.