• fit and use a door chain
• use it every time you open the door but do not leave it on all the time

You may be able to reduce some risks yourself, or a friend, neighbour, relative or carer might help.

Hampshire Constabulary can provide advice on how to reduce crime in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The Bobby Scheme provides FREE home security and safety checks to anyone in Hampshire over the age of 60. This service is also available to those most vulnerable due to disabililty or long term illness. They can offer door/window locks, door chains, smoke alarms and much more – all supplied and fitted free of charge.

You could try the Neighbourhood Watch web site for advice.

You might also try the Crimestoppers web site for help to prevent distraction burglary.

You could contact a local Home Improvement Agency who assist vulnerable homeowners and private sector tenants.

They will visit and give advice about problems with the condition of the home, offer a handy person service for small jobs around the home or offer advice on making the home more energy efficient.

• use a recommended trader
• always ask to see an ID card
• ring the company before you let anyone in

You may be able to reduce some risks yourself.

The Trading Standards Buy With Confidence Scheme hold a register of checked and Trading Standards approved local trades people and businesses.

Go to the The Protecting Older People (POP) team website where there is more information about dealing with uninvited doorstep sellers, junk mail and misleading prices.

The Quick Response team can intervene at short notice and assist in dealing with rogue traders while they are still in the area.

Hampshire Constabulary can provide advice on how to reduce crime in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

• never respond to unsolicited mail saying you have won a prize
• never give out your personal details

You may be able to reduce some risks yourself.

Sign up to the Mailing Preference Service and Telephone Preference Services who will remove your details from marketing lists.

Report it to Trading Standards, if there have been breaches of the law they can follow these up.

Go to the The Protecting Older People (POP) team website where there is more information about dealing with uninvited doorstep sellers and junk mail.

• do not confront them yourself

Discuss your concerns with the Community Safety Service. - for non-emergency antisocial behaviour and community safety advice.

Ring 101 (calls cost a flat rate of ten pence) for the Hampshire accredited Community Safety Officers who deal with antisocial behaviour and other community issues.

Information on calling 101 is on the DirectGov web site.

You could try the Neighbourhood Watch web site for advice.

You might also try the Crimestoppers web site.