Exeter householders warned to beware of bogus caller

Householders have been warned about a bogus caller in the Exeter area claiming to be from the Fire Prevention Unit.

A white male, about 40 years old, was reported to the police earlier today (23 October) after knocking on the front door of an elderly lady claiming to be from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service and wanted to enter the property.

The householder very wisely did not let the man enter and alerted the matter to the police by calling 101. 

Alan Coxon, Community Safety Prevention Manager said: “We would urge people to beware of bogus callers. Any Fire Service personnel carrying out home fire safety visits are always in uniform and always carry a photo identity badge. We would also pre-book a visit.

“If anyone receives any similar approaches, they should not let the person into their home and immediately contact the police on 101."