Police Scotland today issued general safety advice following the incident in the Morningside area on Friday (11th July) when an elderly woman was attacked within her home.
Superintendent James Frame said: “I’d like to reassure the public that as well as a dedicated enquiry team investigating the incident, we have officers from Police Scotland carrying out patrols in the Morningside area over this weekend to reassure residents and deal with any concerns local people may have.
“As always, we would also encourage residents to call us should they have concerns regarding anyone who calls on them unannounced in unusual circumstances or regarding anyone they perceive to be acting suspiciously around their home”.
Police also have security advice if you receive unsolicited callers at your home.
Keep your front and back doors locked.
Use the door viewer or nearby window before answering the door.
Fit a door chain or bar – and use it.
Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.
Ask for identification, but don’t rely on it – it can sometimes be fake.
If you don’t know who the caller is, and you’re not expecting them, don’t let them in.
Don’t be persuaded by persistent callers, if need be arrange a different time when a family member or friend can be there.
Look out for those in your community and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland on 101.
If the person refuses to leave or you feel scared or threatened Phone 999 and ask for the Police.
Please remember, if in doubt keep them out.
Further information about beating Doorstep Crime and Bogus Callers can be located on the Police Scotland website at www.scotland.police.uk <http://www.scotland.police.uk>
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
