8 February 2005
Police commend Edenbridge resident
West Kent Police have received a report of a man claiming to be from the water board calling at the home of an elderly Edenbridge resident. The woman, who lives in the Manor Road refused to let the man in and he then walked away. The matter was reported to police by a member of the woman’s family.
Ins Simon Wilshaw, Community Crime Reduction Dept said: “The lady acted quite correctly in not allowing this man into her home, she is to be congratulated for doing this. No-one should be afraid to say no to someone who turns up unexpectedly. I would also urge people to let the police know as soon possible.”
West Kent Police advice regarding callers is STOP, CHAIN, CHECK. Use the door bar or chain before you open the door. Always ask to see identification, if you have any doubts about a caller or are not expecting anyone do not let them in, even if they say they know you.
Close the door and ask the caller to post proof of their identify through the letterbox but remember computers make it very easy to produce an official looking document which may include a false telephone number.
Check the caller is genuine by ringing the company using the telephone number in the phone book, not on the card. If a caller is genuine they will understand the need to check and will not mind waiting. If you are worried call the police.
