Fire service warn about Home Safety Hoax

A warning has been issued to residents following a spate of incidents where callers claiming to be from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service on Home Safety Visits, have gained access to homes – resulting in some money being stolen from occupants.

The local fire service has issued a press release making clear:

- It never cold calls or visits homes unannounced to give out advice.

- Appointments are only ever made when occupants contact the Fire Service themselves - not the other way round.

- The Home Safety Visit team will attend pre-arranged appointments so that occupants will know exactly what date and time to expect Fire Service staff to visit.

- All Fire Service staff have identity badges and uniforms which can be verified as genuine by the Service.

- Passwords can be put in place when arranging a visit, for extra security.

- Friends and family are welcome to be present at the time of a visit.

Group Manager Chris Ellis said: “If a resident receives a visit from someone purporting to be from the Fire Service and they have not arranged a Home Safety Visit then they must never let them into their property. It is also worth mentioning that all our advice is given on a goodwill basis and is absolutely free.”

If you would like to arrange a Home Safety Visit please call: