Hartlepool families warned to stay on alert for door-to-door salesmen

A report was made of salesmen trying to sell doorstep milk deliveries in the Belmont Avenue area on Monday, August 17 around 9pm. They asked for cash and left no information.

Inquiries suggest that the men appear to be legitimate salesmen. There are no reports yet of anyone handing over cash.

But officers want the public to stay vigilant, check the ID of anyone who might turn up at their homes without prior notice and not allow unexpected callers inside without calling the company concerned to ensure they are genuine.

Cleveland Police advise the following:

• Always ask for identification or a legitimate certificate from any salespersons.

• Check credentials, including business address and telephone number. Call the organisation concerned to check the person out.

• Don’t let anyone into your home if you feel uneasy about it.

• Don’t buy any items until you are satisfied that they are legitimate.

• Always get an agreement in writing with price, quote and contact details.

• Beware of filling out personal forms or when giving out personal or financial information.

• Ensure you are happy with your product and it is in working order.

• If in doubt, call your local trading standards authority.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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