Cold warning - in spring

Pete Bradbury, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “When the weather is warm, dodgy doorstep dealers and rogue traders traditionally step up their cold calling activities.

“We are more relaxed at home than in a shop where we have actually gone out to buy something – door to door traders frequently exploit this.

“Older people are often a particular target and can be very vulnerable. If you have elderly neighbours, relatives or friends please warn them to be careful, and keep an eye out for unexpected callers.”

Favourite cold calling products and services include:

Mobility aids and products, including stair lifts, bath aids, scooters and buggies.

Disability aids, including hearing aids.

Home improvement, repair and maintenance services, including the construction of extensions, conservatories, driveways, patios and the supply and/or fitting of double-glazing.

Gardening services.

Personal items, including cosmetics, toiletries, jewellery.

Household items, such as kitchenware, decorative and household cleaning items.

Nutrition and health products.

Graeme MacPherson, Head of Trading Standards, said the service’s advice is:

Never get involved with uninvited callers at your door – say ‘NO’.

If the caller says they are from the Council or other public body, ask to see their authority and check it – they will be PLEASED to show it.

If you should be subjected to threats or intimidation call the Police at once on 999.

Seek advice from West Sussex County Council Trading Standards Service before agreeing to anything, if you are unsure of your position. Call consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

Graeme added: “If you do enter into a contract in your home, in many instances you do have the right to cancel a contract for goods or services made during a visit by a trader.

“You should by law be given a cooling off period and cancellation notice.

“But the best advice is not to enter into a contract in the first place. Unless you are absolutely certain that it is right for you – SAY ‘NO’.”