(Image: Age UK)
West Midlands Police has seen an increase in burglaries where elderly residents are being targeted in the Black Country.
They’re doing all they can to find the people responsible but meanwhile you can help them by being extra cautious when receiving unsolicited calls and reporting any suspicious behaviour.
They’re investigating at least five break-ins over the weekend where it’s believed three men − thought to be white and in their 30s or 40s – forced entry into homes looking for cash and jewellery in Dudley and Wolverhampton. They follow similar incidents reported in Walsall last week.
Think twice before you open the door to people who arrive unannounced and call the police if you see anything suspicious. Can you help look out for elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours and pass on these safety messages?
Bogus ’workmen’ may say that they need to come in to check something or make urgent repairs. There may be callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac your drive. Often they’ll ask for money in advance; they may even offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money to pay them.
Try to remember to ask for ID if you don’t know the caller. Genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry identification with their photograph on, they won’t mind if you close the door while you do this.
If you’re not sure, ask the caller to come back later. You can then check their story by phoning the organisation or company they claim to represent. Look up the number in your own telephone directory or online. Don’t rely on the telephone number on their card – it may be the number of a crook’s partner.
If you’re in any doubt don’t let them in. Phone West Midlands Police if you are worried on 101 and in an emergency dial 999
