Police are reminding elderly or vulnerable people not to feel pressured into signing up for products or services if they receive a telephone ‘cold call’. The warning comes after a number of elderly residents in the Teesdale area reported receiving calls from one company in particular trying to sell them security or fire alarms for considerable amounts of money. While there is no suggestion the company concerned has done anything illegal, police and fire chiefs say some people may be vulnerable to the sales tactics and easily persuaded to sign up for a system or device they do not need, or cannot afford. “Businesses are perfectly entitled to try and drum up trade, but judging by the reports we have had a number of people feel the
Cold Calls Prompt Police & Fire Warning tactics being used are quite high-pressure,” said PC David Williamson from Barnard Castle police. “We are concerned that some people may be vulnerable to this kind of approach and we would urge them to seek free advice from ourselves or the Fire and Rescue service before they commit to anything.”
Andrew Allison, community safety manager for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Free, unbiased advice and practical help regarding home security and home fire safety is available from the fire service and police so there is no need to pay large sums of money to private companies who unexpectedly call you at home. “We would advise elderly and vulnerable people, or their families on their behalf, to call CDDFRS or email to arrange a ‘Safe and Wellbeing’ visit with the fire service. “During the visit firefighters and community safety officers can make an assessment, provide information and even fit smoke alarms and locks to make properties safer.” • Free security and fire safety advice can be found via – https://www.ddfire.gov.uk/safer-homes-project • To book a ‘Safe and Wellbeing’ visit call County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service on 0845 2234221 or email csenquiries@ddfire.gov.uk
