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RESIDENTS of Parsonage Gardens, in Haverhlll, can feel more secure in their homes thanks to a new “granny boot” device to stop unwanted callers getting into their homes.
The device, which can be wedged against the door to prevent it being fully opened, has been supplied to eight bungalows at Parsonage Gardens as a pilot scheme.
The devices were developed by Bedfordshire police. Haverhill Crime Reduction Officer Dave Dyble has worked with St Edmundsbury Borough Council Housing Officer Rachnel Hilton to get the pilot scheme under way. If it is a success, it is hoped to extend it to other areas. Jeanie Telford, 68, was one of the residents given the device and was very pleased with it. “I think it is a marvellous idea. With the walls here, you cannot see who it is with the door open a little bit. With this, you can see out but nobody can get in,” she said.
Mr Dyble said many people with arthritis found door chains difficult to use and this was a simple device which prevented the door being opened completely.
He stressed the need for people to be aware of bogus callers and to demand ID from callers. Lists of numbers to call to utilities and other services are available from St Edmundsbury Borough Council or people can ring the police on (01284) 774100 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111