As the area prepares for another cool snap this weekend, Halton Borough Council Trading Standards had reports that cold callers are operating in the area.
Officers advise consumers not to buy products on their doorsteps from cold callers and to avoid being caught out by cold callers by:
•Keeping your front and back doors secure at all times.
•If someone comes to your door, observe this code:
– Stop: Are you expecting anybody? Do they have an appointment?
– Chain: Secure the door bar or chain before opening the door.
– Check: Ask for and double check the caller’s ID.
•If they offer you products, services or to do work on your property say “No, thanks” and shut the door.
•Do not keep large sums of money at home.
A Halton Borough Council Spokesman, said: “If you have any suspicions about a cold caller they will more than likely continue knocking on doors in your neighbourhood until they find someone who may be vulnerable.
“If the police don’t know about them – they can’t do anything. So, if someone suspicious does call at your door, always report it and call 101 to help safeguard your community.”
In an emergency call the Police on 999.
If you or somebody you know has been caught out by a scam or fraud please contact one of our specialist officers, Linda or Sue on 0151 511 8785 or 0151 511 8775, who are already working with people in Halton who have lost thousands of pounds to scams.
If you need advice on anything else please contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline or 0808 223 1133