Warning of Bogus Caller April 2007

Title:   Fire-fighters Warn of Bogus Caller             

 Date:   02.04.07                                                                    

         Firefighters are warning people to be aware of a person, who claims to be a Firefighter, in order to gain access to their home. 

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were contacted by a concerned homeowner last week, who explained that she had been telephoned by a man, stating that he was a Firefighter working in the area, carrying out Home Fire Risk Checks.

The caller asked a number of questions, including asking for details about the homeowners living arrangements. The homeowner had the good sense not to give out any details. The person making the telephone call was not a Firefighter, or a representative of North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

 Fire and Rescue Service Spokesperson, Station Manager Carl Boasman says:” On this occasion, it appears that somebody has tried to gain information about homeowners living arrangements over the telephone, with the intention of gaining access to the house. Homeowners need to be aware that this person is operating in the area and that Fire and Rescue Service staff will never ask for personal information over the telephone.”

 He continues: “Fire and Rescue Service staff may call to make appointments when carrying out Home Fire Risk Checks, this will usually be by prior arrangement. All Fire and Rescue Service staff carry identification cards, which homeowners should ask for before letting anybody into their house.”  

 Home Fire Risk Checks are a free service, where Fire and Rescue Service staff visit your home to look for hazards, give fire safety advice and fit smoke alarms.

A visit can be arranged by calling 01609 788545 or by visiting www.northyorksfire.gov.uk North Yorkshire

Police are aware of this incident and are happy to receive any information about this person. Anybody who has information relating to this incident should call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. 

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service gives the following advice: 

  • Never give out personal information over the telephone, if you are unsure, hang up and call us directly.
 
  • Fire and Rescue Service staff carry identification cards. Make sure you check before letting someone into your home.
 
  • Homeowners can call 01609 780150, 24 hours a day, to verify if a caller is genuine.
 
  • If in doubt, lock them out, and call the Police.
Station Manager Carl Boasman finishes by saying: “It concerns us that somebody is using the good name of the Fire and Rescue Service for this purpose. We urge homeowners to be vigilant and to make sure they know a persons identity before letting them into their home.”  
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