Dyfed-Powys Police is urging people to look out for elderly relatives and neighbours during Operation Santa.

Older people are quite often vulnerable and unfortunately there are people in society who target them because of this.

Simple steps such as regularly checking on loved ones or neighbours and making sure they are aware of the dangers of bogus callers could make all the difference.

Make sure their property is well-maintained and all doors and windows are secure. An unkempt garden could be a signal to thieves that a vulnerable person lives there.

Bogus callers target elderly and vulnerable people, sometimes by pretending to be from reputable companies and sometimes by resorting to distraction tactics.

PCSO Ben Cole said: “Unfortunately, the elderly and vulnerable people in our communities can be targeted by criminals such as burglars or bogus callers. During Operation Santa we are urging people to look out for their loved ones and neighbours. Take the time to make sure they are safe and well.”

For more top crime prevention tips visit www.dyfed-powys.police.uk or follow twitter @DyfedPowys and @Fishguard_NPT .

Police encourage residents to think about adopting some of the following measures to protect themselves, loved ones and neighbours:

Fit a door chain - and always use it.

Do not let anyone in to your home that you do not know.

Ask to see identification. Make sure the caller is genuine, if in doubt, telephone the company the caller says they work for.

Never leave a key hidden outside the home .

Ask a neighbour or friend to visit while the caller is there.

Don’t let the caller stop you doing these things by saying he or she is in a hurry. A genuine caller won’t mind waiting outside with the door closed while you ring. Remember to keep the door chain on until you are sure your caller is genuine.