This is a Community Message from Aylesbury Watch Office on Monday 4 April 2011.
The National Census day was 27 March and most households will have now completed and returned their answers, either on line or by post. However, this national event may give opportunity to bogus callers to take advantage of elderly or vulnerable residents, so please pass on this information to friends, family and neighbours:-
Census staff should not call at your address provided you have submitted your questionnaire by 6 April. All Census field staff will have photo ID, with logo and hologram on it, which they will show automatically. If you are in any doubt about their authenticity call the Census Helpline on 0300 0201 130, or outside of helpline hours, call the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. Do not allow them in unless you are sure they are genuine.
As always, be vigilant with when dealing with any unknown or unexpected callers. Bogus callers often seem very plausible but not everyone is who they say they are. Where possible open the door using a door chain and regardless of who they claim to work for, do not allow them into your home unless you have checked their details by contacting their company, using a telephone number from your own records.
Together, local communities and Police can make a difference in deterring bogus callers and preventing offences of distraction burglary.
Further advice on preventing distraction burglary can be found on our website www.thamesvalley.police.uk or by calling the 24 hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.
