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Residents in Farnborough are being reminded not to let uninvited callers into their home after an attempted distraction burglary in the town.
A man attended an address in Salisbury Road at 8.30pm on Monday, December 22 claiming to be working for a neighbour.
He told the 88-year-old resident he needed to turn off her water to avoid a flood, but the woman refused to let the man in and shut the door.
The man is described as:
- White
- Aged in his late 20s to early 30s
- Round face
- 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins
- Well built
- Short brown hair
- Spoke with a local accent
- Wearing a multi-coloured long sleeved jumper
PC Campbell Patrick, from Farnborough police station, said: "Fortunately on this occasion the woman didn't believe this man's story and closed the door.
"We would encourage anyone who receives an unexpected caller to their door to follow our advice and check who they are before letting them in.
"Burglars will use a range of excuses to gain access to people's property, such as pretending they are workmen or from utility companies.
"If you see any suspicious people in the area, call the police immediately and take a note of their description and any vehicle details.
"Speak to your neighbour or loved one and encourage them to avoid leaving large amounts of money in their home and encourage them to ask for proof of identity before letting any unexpected callers into their homes."
Hampshire Constabulary offers the following Safer Homes advice:
- Stop - are you expecting anyone to call on you? Do you know the person at the door? Don't be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
- Chain - fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.
- Check - A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it. Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from.
Burglars can make you believe they are genuine callers. Don't invite them in. If in doubt, keep them out!