ELDERLY people now have a new weapon in the fight against doorstep thieves - vital phone numbers.
A new crime prevention leaflet is available from the police.
It contains the numbers people need to check if they are suspicious of anyone who calls at their home.
The Examiner has printed them here and people are urged to cut them out and keep them near their phones.
Many conmen pretend to work for Yorkshire Water or gas and electricity companies.
With so many companies now supplying power to homes, it can be confusing who to phone to check on a caller.
Pc Dave McSweeney, of Huddersfield police, said: "These numbers will make it a lot easier for people to get through to the right companies quickly.
"If someone calls at your home and you are not happy with the identification they provide, close and lock the door.
"Then phone the relevant company to check they are who they say they are.
"Genuine callers will be happy to wait while you do this.
"Bogus ones will disappear."
Bogus callers trick their way in and usually distract the victim by asking for a drink of water or tea. Or they get the victim to run water in another room.
They then look for cash and valuables - or an accomplice slips in through the open door and searches rooms.
Pc McSweeney added: "These thieves can be convincing and persuasive. The golden rule is trust no-one unless you are 100% happy they are who they say they are.
"Genuine callers should always arrange an appointment with you beforehand.
"If you are not expecting them and you are alone, ask them to call back when you have a friend, relative or trusted neighbour with you."
Other conmen claim to be tradesman, such as builders or gardeners, who call saying the house needs vital repairs.
