Beware the front door tricksters

A leaflet explaining what measures to take when answering the door to unknown callers is being delivered to every home in the area through the district council's District Link publication.

It has been produced by the local Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, a joint initiative of Sussex Police, Lewes District Council and East Sussex County Council.

Bogus callers, often working as part of a highly-organised criminal group, pose as utility and council workers, trades people and even police officers to gain entry into people's homes.

They particularly target the elderly or vulnerable.

The leaflet highlights three golden rules to follow before opening the door

Ask yourself are you expecting anyone

Always secure the chain or door bar first

Ask for and double check the caller's identity

It is important for people to check up if they are shown an ID card. A telephone number can be checked against the number in the phone book to see if it matches.

Trading Standards can also help check if a company is genuine - their customer advice line is 01323 418200.

If someone is unhappy about a caller at their door, they can call the police non-emergency number on 0845 60 70 999. In an emergency always call 999.

Cllr Elizabeth Lee, district councillor for community issues, said: 'We are trying to get the message across that you don't have to let someone in your house just because they've rung your doorbell.

'This campaign aims to remind people how they can protect their homes. The elderly are especially at risk.

'Recent figures show that 25 per cent of older people open their door without taking any safety precautions.

'So what we're saying is: If in doubt, keep them out.'