WCYT

POLICE are advising residents to be wary of salespeople adopting high pressure sales techniques to sell security products. Several members of the public have contacted their local police officers across the Southend district, having recently received a phone call from a company offering a free home security survey. On the occasions where this offer has been taken up, residents have then been visited by salespeople using high pressure sales tactics trying to convince the homeowner to buy overpriced products.

Lorna Watson, Essex Police’s Crime Reduction Officer for the South Eastern division, said: “Some companies work their way into people’s homes by offering a free service, only to then try and sell over-priced, and often unnecessary, security products. They’ve been known to use scare tactics to convince homeowners that they’re in danger unless they buy these items.

"These companies may appear bona fide, with fancy websites and glossy brochures – but don’t be fooled by the marketing material. We’d recommend you steer clear of buying from cold callers, and if you’re considering investing in a security device such as a burglar alarm, always obtain several quotes and we’d recommend you use companies approved by National Security Inspectorate (NSI). Homeowners should be advised that there are several free options available to them in order to obtain peace of mind regarding the security of their home.”

Community Engagement Co-ordinator Mick Holland added: “For residents who are over 60 years old, the Help the Aged Handyvan scheme is available. This involves a specialist fitter who will carry out a survey of your home and then fit any necessary additional security features completely free of charge. To find or more or to apply for this service, please call me on 01702 464199.”

Likewise, Essex County Fire & Rescue Service’s Community Safety Officer, John Tidbury, advises that they offer free fire safety surveys to all residents. He said: “Homeowners can phone us to make an appointment by calling 01702 614433. We do not cold call, we do not sell products, we simply offer free advice and assistance so that in the unlikely event of a house fire, you are best placed to respond quickly and effectively. Visiting officers wear ID at all times and can issue residents with security passwords upon making the appointment - so when they arrive at the door, their identity can be verified.”

All residents can obtain free advice by contacting their local Neighbourhood Specialist Officers (NSO) who will be happy to talk them through steps they can take to enjoy improved home security. For more information on who your local NSO is, visit www.essex.police.uk or call 0300 333 4444.

To check a list of companies who are NSI approved, visit their website at www.nsi.org.uk