NI Water issues bogus caller warning as darker evenings return
NI Water is urging householders across Northern Ireland to remain vigilant against bogus callers as the evenings grow darker and the clocks go back this weekend.
The utility company has reminded customers that genuine NI Water staff carry photographic identification and that unexpected callers should always be checked before being allowed into a property.
The warning is particularly relevant for older and vulnerable residents who may be targeted by criminals posing as utility workers.
How to identify a genuine NI Water caller
NI Water said its employees carry identification cards displaying their photograph, name and serial number.
Householders should ask anyone claiming to represent NI Water, Water Service or the Water Board to show their identification before opening the door fully.
Where possible, residents should keep their door chain attached and ask the caller to hold up their identification.
Those without a door chain or camera can ask the caller to display the card through a window or pass it through the letterbox.
The company stressed that genuine employees will not object to having their identity checked.
NI Water urges residents to use Quick Check
Robbie Burns, NI Water Customer Experience Senior Manager, said it was highly unusual for NI Water staff to arrive at a property without providing advance notification.
He encouraged anyone receiving an unexpected visit to use the Quick Check service through the police non-emergency number, 101.
The service allows members of the public to verify the identity of someone claiming to represent a water, electricity or gas company.
If the caller is not genuine or there are suspicious circumstances, police can take appropriate action.
Residents should not allow someone into their home unless they are satisfied the person is who they claim to be.
Extra support available for vulnerable customers
NI Water is also encouraging customers who need additional assistance to register for its free Customer Care Register.
The service is designed to provide extra support to eligible customers who may require help during water supply interruptions or other service-related situations.
Customers can also register for the company’s free Keeping You Informed text alert service.
The alerts provide information about planned works and emergency interruptions affecting local water supplies.
Police advice for dealing with suspicious callers
Anyone who feels uncomfortable about an unexpected caller should avoid opening the door until the person’s identity has been verified.
NI Water said householders should not be pressured into granting access, even if the visitor claims the matter is urgent.
Residents can use 101 to check the caller’s identity through the Quick Check scheme.
If someone feels immediately threatened or a crime is in progress, they should contact police on 999.
The warning comes ahead of the end of British Summer Time on Sunday 25 October, when clocks move back one hour.
External links: NI Water Customer Care Register and Keeping You Informed alerts.
Other news: Police appeal after Dunmurry home ransacked and cash stolen