Cumbrians are being urged to be wary of businesses that telephone householders and offer a free security survey.
Cumbria County Council's Trading Standards Department today warned the public that they should beware of firms offering this and seek independent advice instead.
If the householder agrees to the survey, an appointment will be made and a company representative will visit the home within two days.
The company will then carry out a security assessment which takes about two hours. If the householder agrees to buy the equipment it could cost more than £2,000, which then rises to £3,000 with the add-on of a service agreement.
Phil Ashcroft, Head of Trading Standards in Cumbria, said, "Companies that sell equipment in this way often use hard sell tactics. Because they telephone during the day, a high percentage of the householders that they reach are the elderly who are vulnerable to a hard sell, may be more inclined to feel the need for added security but who might not realise that the equipment that they are offered may be grossly overpriced.
"My advice is to always seek independent advice on matters concerning home security. The police will offer free independent advice on the need and fitting of burglary and security equipment. I would recommend that householders ask a local company rather than engage the services of cold calling telephone based companies."
ENDS
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