If in doubt, keep them out!

If in doubt, keep them out!

'If in doubt keep them out' is a campaign to generate awareness of crime prevention messages and help you keep your property safe. The campaign also encourages you to be a good neighbour, by watching out for suspicious callers in your area and by persuading neighbours, friends and family to follow simple crime prevention tips. 

The campaign also encourages you to be a good neighbour, by watching out for suspicious callers in your area and by persuading neighbours, friends and family to follow simple crime prevention tips.

You can’t always be sure who is at your door, so if you are not expecting anyone, you should ask to see their identification.

You may feel it is rude to refuse entry to someone, but it is your doorstep and therefore, your decision.

Things to be aware of:

  • Criminals using false identities to try and get into your home to steal are known as ‘distraction burglars’ or ‘bogus callers’

  • Just because a caller says they’re from your water or gas company, the council, or even the police, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are

  • Bogus callers can also wear ordinary clothes, they can be children or adults wanting nothing more than a drink of water or to wash their hands - beware these requests, they are excuses to distract you.

You can help Northumbria Police by following these simple steps:

  • Keep front and back doors locked (with keys taken out), even when at home

  • Stop and think if the caller is expected

  • Look through a spy hole or window to identify the caller

  • Put the door chain or door bar on first before opening the door, and keep it on whilst talking to the caller

  • Check their identity card carefully even if the caller has pre-arranged appointment

  • Don’t let visitors who are in a hurry, pressurise or confuse you - ask them to wait outside while you confirm who they are, genuine visitors won’t mind waiting

  • If you need to leave a caller standing outside while you collect or check something indoors, close the door and lock it

  • Never use a telephone number given by the caller – find the number in your telephone directory or use the numbers on this leaflet

  • If you are not comfortable, ask the caller to return when someone is with you

  • Only use reputable workmen recommended by family and friends, or those who have worked satisfactorily for you before. Consider contacting your local trading Standards who may run a registered traders scheme for advice on choosing a tradesperson.