Home fire safety check scammersPowys residents are being urged by the county council to be on their guard against fire safety scammers.

Reports of telephone calls from people claiming to be from the fire service are increasing, with offers of a home fire safety check, Powys County Council has said.

The caller will try to gain the recipients trust and play on safety concerns in order to be given full, unrestricted access to the home, and then charge excessive amounts for work that may not necessarily be required.

Home fire safety checks are extremely important, and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service will provide these for free. The fire service personnel carrying out these checks will always be in uniform, not in plain clothes and will have identification with them.

If you would like to book a free fire safety check for your home, please call 0800 169 1234 or visit the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service website – https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/

Cllr Richard Church, Cabinet Member for a Safer Powys, said: “Fire safety is such an important topic, and it should not be overlooked.

“Please remember that these checks are done for free by the fire service, so please be vigilant if approached. If you feel pressurised or concerned after a visit from anyone at your door, please contact the police.”

If you have any doubts about a caller claiming to be from the fire service, contact them directly on the above number.

Don’t use the numbers or address provided by a stranger – use the details from official paperwork already in your possession from a previously successful visit or from an official website.

The council’s Trading Standards Service has provided the following advice to help residents being targeted by scams:

• More often than not, these types of scams are targeted at the older generation. Always seek confirmation of the legitimacy of a caller before allowing them access to your home. A legitimate visitor will have no objection to you closing the door and leaving them outside whilst you confirm their identity.
• If you feel pressurised or concerned after a visit from anyone at your door, contact the police on 101. If it becomes urgent and you are feeling threatened, call 999.
• If possible, always have a relative or trusted friend/neighbour present when any planned visit takes place.
• Please be mindful of all scams and share the above information with friends and family.

To report any fraud attempts, please visit www.actionfraud.police.uk