Wyckoff PD: Don't Let Unannounced Utility Workers into Home Without Checking Identification

The Wyckoff Police Department is reminding residents to have utility workers show identification before letting them enter their home.

While the majority of workers from gas, electric, water, and cable companies that may come your home unannounced are “legitimate employees simply doing their job,” Wyckoff Police Chief Benjamin C. Fox said “there have been instances were persons posing as these employees attempt to enter a home for the purpose of committing a crime.”

The Wyckoff Police Department says that “workers from any utility that come to your home must display a company identification card,” which typically has the business’ name and a photo of the employee.

“You should never allow access to your home to anyone without identification,” Chief Fox said. “Politely ask them to wait outside and advise that you wish to make a call to confirm their identity. A legitimate employee will completely understand.”

But if you still feel uncomfortable after the employee has shown proper identification, do not let them enter and contact the police department so that an officer can respond and confirm the identity of the person and the nature of their business.

Chief Fox also says “parents should advise children that are home alone to never allow entry to a stranger, and to make sure that they know how to contact the police department if they need assistance.”

“Keep yourself and your property safe by being certain that a person claiming to be a utility worker is legitimate,” he said.