THURROCK Council’s trading standards team is warning people to beware of tricksters using the recent bad weather to get into homes.
In one incident in the east of the borough, a man knocked on doors claiming nearby flooding had put the water supply in danger and he had to come in to turn it off.
While getting the householder to check taps through the house, he took the opportunity to search and steal a handbag and its contents.
Cllr Angie Gaywood, Thurrock’s portfolio holder for public protection, said: “We must all remember that thieves and tricksters will use any excuse they can to get into your home.
“If they’re claiming to be from an authority of some kind – the ‘water board’ for example – check for identification and if you’re unsure, tell them to come back in a few minutes when you have had a chance to ring up and get them checked out.“It’s always best to be safe rather than sorry.”
