DISTRACTION BURGLARY  -  HELP YOUR COMMUNITY TO BE SAFE The definition of distraction burglary is when a one burglar distracts the occupant of a house so that the other can quickly gain access and steal items. What the definition does not do is describe the devastation this can leave behind for those who have become victims. However astute you are, it can happen to anyone of any age. It is the elderly and vulnerable who are particularly targeted and an incident of this kind can leave them with their confidence shattered and afraid to open the door. As a family member, friend, carer or neighbour, you can really help the potentially vulnerable people you know from becoming a victim of this unpleasant crime. Houses and gardens that are not cared for often indicate someone who is struggling to maintain their property and it is these places that are being sized up by distraction burglars. If your friend or family member is in this position, you can help by offering to mow the lawn and tidy their garden or help get the house painted.  You really can make a difference in preventing this crime. Chains on the door are an essential and everyone should use a chain to answer the door if it is not someone they know. So often elderly people have come from a trusting generation where doors were left open and they are lonely and welcome a chat. These burglars are expert at offering a friendly word to distract your attention. Always make sure your back door and windows are shut and locked if you answer the front door. Everyone should have a good quality chain and locks on their door and windows and don’t let anyone into the house unless you are sure they are genuine. Always ask for identification and then check the telephone number from the phone book before allowing anyone in. A genuine official won’t mind waiting while you phone to check they are in your area. The Water Board does not exist any more, but the name is often used as a means of entry. Tell your family and friends never to do business on the doorstep or agree to work being done for cash with no documents or time to consider. (You legally have 10 days to reconsider). Cash stored in the house is a bad idea – so encourage the people you know to put money in the bank or building society. If they are distance away – offer to drive them there when they need to withdraw money. Elderly people are sometimes taken to their bank or building society by distraction burglars to withdraw large sums of money to repair a roof that does not need doing or tarmac a driveway. Most of the time they promise to return to do the work the next day and then take the money and run. Regular phone calls and visits make all the difference and you can help remind people of these tips, particularly if they forget things easily. A notice by the front door can remind them to use the chain or check an identity. Finally, Dorset Police is here to help. If you feel that you are being targeted by distraction burglars or feel threatened, dial 999 straight away. We have successfully returned thousands of pounds to victims because we have been notified in time. If you have been a victim in the past - don’t feel foolish – it can happen to anyone. Call us on our non emergency number 01202/01305 22 22 22 and report it and you may save someone else from being a victim. To download a copy of the notice to place by the door or hand to someone who is vulnerable click on the following link: http://www.dorset.police.uk/pdf/BeSureBeSafe.pdf  You can still also contact your local Dorchester Safer Neighbourhood Teams on the following number Dorchester South (Town) Team mobile: 07500 816290 Dorchester East (Rural) Team mobile: 07500 816291 Dorchester North (Town) Team mobile: 07500 816287 Dorchester West (Rural) Team mobile: 07500 816292