1 April 2009

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is warning people to be on their guard following reports of a man posing as a firefighter near the south of the county.

A man dressed as a firefighter knocked on a door in Langley last week saying that he needed to come into the property to “check the electrics”.  

The householder became suspicious as she had not requested a visit from the fire service, and asked him to come back later when her friend would be there. The man did not return and the householder reported the incident to the police.

Community safety manager Terry Ridgely said: “We would like to warn people to be on their guard following this incident. Although we carry out a great deal of work in the community, we do not knock at people’s doors unless they have booked a visit.

“We operate a scheme that involves firefighters and community safety staff checking people’s homes for hazards and installing smoke alarms, but these visits are always arranged in advance.

“In addition, all our staff are in uniform and carry official identification, and will be in a fire appliance or a Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service vehicle.

“If you are contacted by someone claiming to be from the fire service who does not appear to be genuine, do not let them into your home.”

If you are suspicious about a caller, ring Thames Valley Police using the non-emergency number, 0845 8 505 505.