Fire safety scammers hit Welshpool

Local 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 recipient’s 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 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.

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 would like to book a free fire safety check for your home, please call 0800 169 1234 or visit https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/

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

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.