Police Alert G099 060209

1. Please note there has been an increase in the number of fraud offences across the Force area. These are mainly associated with paving and driveway companies but there have also been a number of leaflet drops and cold calling at various locations. If you want to have work done on your property, use a reputable company or take recommendations from friends/family. You can also contact Consumer Direct on 08454-040506 for advice. Please also remember that cold calling can come in the form of unsolicited mail through the post, cold calling on the telephone and bogus Emails. You should treat all instances in the same manner that you would a caller at the door, ie not to deal with them and certainly not to confirm any personal details including name, address, telephone number, bank details etc etc. NHW office has leaflets and advice on such matters - contact Lindsey for your free copy.

2. This is also the time of year when we traditionally receive new telephone directories. Distribution companies should have a protocol on delivery and if they cannot deliver to the householder should leave them out of sight not in view of other passers by.

3. Security of sheds, garages and outbuildings.  Along with the security of your home, you should also remember that sheds, garages and outbuildings can be targeted.  There has already been the start of a spate of such breaks in the Porlock area and considerable amounts of equipment and tools have been stolen.  Free advice leaflets are available from the NHW office and the 2009 security item leaflet also has some ideas on shed alarms.

4. Last but not least a reminder that the Force are looking for nominations for the 2009 annual NHW awards. The 2008 awards saw 6 winners from our Police District, more than any other district in the Force with recipients recognised for their long service, dedication to their community and innovations working with young people. If you wish to nominate anyone please contact Lindsey in the NHW office who can supply the relevant form - nominations need to be completed and forwarded to the NHW by 1 April 2009.