Bogus alarm salesmen target homes

People in the Reigate area of Surrey have been warned to be on their guard after several residents were targeted by bogus burglar alarm salesmen.

The callers rang householders during last week claiming to be working with Surrey Police as part of a crime prevention initiative.

They asked about people's home security and offered them free burglar alarms or the chance to win a £1,000 alarm.

On each occasion the callers hung up when challenged by the resident.

"The householders acted correctly in challenging these bogus callers and I applaud them for reporting their suspicions to police," said Insp Charlotte Rimmer.

"When someone asks you when you are in or whether you have an alarm, you are also telling them when you are out and what security measures you have in place."