POLICE are warning people to be careful after a spate of distraction burglaries.

Cleveland Police says it has received several reports since Sunday.

On Sunday, two men are reported to have distracted an elderly householder in Bevenlee Road, South Bank, while talking about gardening work, while a man entered the house and took a large amount of cash.

Meanwhile, on Monday, at about 1pm, two unknown men attended a property in Dryburn Road in Stockton.

They demanded money for gutter cleaning from the householder, who is in their 80s, but left when they phoned a relative.

And just after 11pm on Monday, a woman in her 40s, calling herself Emma, knocked at a door in Crestwood, Kirkleatham, asking the occupant for money. The householder did not open the door and the woman left.

Police later received calls from residents in Fulmerton Crescent reporting the same woman had knocked on doors there.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "Distraction burglary is devastating for the victims, who are often elderly or vulnerable."

Police offered to following advice:

  • Don’t be tempted to employ workmen who call at your door.
  • Contact a reputable firm - local councils and charities can often assist with recommending approved contractors.
  • Check on your neighbours, friends and family who might be vulnerable to this type of offence, and offer them these tips:
  • Get in the habit of checking who is at the door before opening it.
  • Use a door viewer (spy hole) or shout through the letterbox.
  • If you can, go to a window and deal with visitors there, as it’s a lot easier to dismiss unwanted callers from the safety of your home.
  • If you decide to open the door – use the chain or a door bar
  • Remember – if you’re not sure – don’t open the door
  • Don’t keep savings or other large amounts of money in your home - use a bank or building society. These thieves who come in all shapes, ages and sizes, may be male or female, and often work in pairs; whilst one is distracting you, the other is searching through your belongings.
  • Protect yourself and your home – keep burglars out! Remember – Lock, Chain, Check!