FIREFIGHTERS are warning residents to be wary of bogus phone callers trying to find out about their homes.

Families in Dover Street, Chippenham, have been phoned by a man claiming to be phoning from Wiltshire Fire Brigade.

They have asked the occupier if they would like them to come to the property to do a home safety check.

When some residents questioned the male caller for further identification and information he became agitated and rude and hung up.

Firefighter Jack Nicholson said the brigade became aware of the problem when residents rang Chippenham fire station a few weeks ago.

"A resident living near the station rang us and said their friend had a call from someone pretending to be from the fire brigade offering to do a home safety check."

Fire chiefs are warning families to call police if they receive similar calls.

Mr Nicholson said the callers have often rung elderly people.

"I think it is absolutely terrible the way they target vulnerable people. It is such a low thing to do," he said.

Sub Officer Andy Hargreaves said these types of scams happened throughout the year in various different forms across the county.

"It is a never ending problem. Conmen trade under the good reputation of the fire brigade whether it is selling calendars or advertising or another con. This is just the latest scam. As soon as we issue a warning about one scam another one comes up," he said.

The problem happens across the county and with all bogus callers the elderly and vulnerable are targeted.

Mr Nicholson said the brigade does not make unsolicited calls to people. "We normally wait for people to come to us and ask for a home safety check," he said.

When fire fighters do carry out checks they wear their uniform and carry identification.

"The brigade is completely trust worthy. And we abhor anyone who carries out these despicable scams," said SO Hargreaves.

Anyone seeking fire safety advice can contact their nearest fire station or contact the Community Fire Safety Department on (01380) 731119.