HOUSEHOLDERS across North West Leicestershire are being urged to follow a 1O-point crime prevention plan to ensure they don't become a victim of a distraction burglary.
Distraction burglary often involves highly practiced criminals abusing the trust of victims, usually older people, in order to burgle their home.
The police, councils and a number of other agencies are all working in partnership to prevent this type of crime.
However, there have been some offences of this type committed in North West Leicestershire over the past few months and therefore, we urge residents to follow our 10-point plan to ensure they don't become a victim.

· Most callers to your home will be genuine, but sometimes people will turn up and try to trick their way into your home

· Bogus callers can claim to be from a number of difference agencies - for example the police, the council, health organisations and gas, water or electricity companies

· If the doorbell rings, are you expecting anybody? Official visitors should always arrange an appointment with you beforehand

· Check your back door (if you have one), lock it and take the key with you.
· Secure your door bar or chain before opening the door.
· Ask for identification and double check it
· If you are in any doubt, DO NOT let them in and telephone the agency that the person claims to be from

· Passwords can be arranged with all agencies before you let them in. This password will be known only to you and the agency concerned
· Do not agree to any work being done or sign a contract until after you have talked to someone else

· Bogus callers can turn up as builders or gardeners and try to trick you into paying for unnecessary work. Never agree to have work done by someone who is just passing.