Householders in the Carlisle area are warned to be on their guard against doorstep ‘security’ salesmen thought to be operating in the area this week.
The warning comes after a number of incidences were reported whereby elderly and vulnerable residents were targeted in their home for the sale of burglary and fire security systems. On closer examination, the alarm systems were found to be grossly overpriced. The systems were also sold with excessively-priced maintenance agreements.
Phil Ashcroft, Head of Cumbria County Council’s Trading Standards Department said: “I urge people not to deal with cold-calling salesmen when they come knocking. Free and independent security advice is available from your local police crime prevention officer. Similarly, the fire service offer an excellent free home safety check and can advise residents on suitable fire fighting equipment.”
An 82-year-old Kendal lady who lived alone, was targeted by one such firm. She ended up paying £9,968 for an alarm system and service agreement that was, in reality, worth a few hundred pounds.
The profile of a typical victim of aggressive cold-calling salesmen is a female, aged 81 who lives alone. All residents of Cumbria who have elderly parents living independently are urged to be extra vigilant and supportive to make sure that their parents do not fall prey to these unscrupulous sales tactics.