Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is advising all senior citizens to be extremely careful when strangers approach them regarding inspections of their residence due to the recent firestorms.

These scam-artists distract residents by asking if they can check the water pressure to ensure there is sufficient pressure to combat a fire. Or the scam-artist will want to check the rear yard to ensure that the trees are not a potential fire hazard. While the resident is distracted, another suspect will enter the home and remove property and jewelry.

The LAPD wants to inform the public that water pressure is not checked from inside the residence and do not allow strangers into the rear yard to see if trees will present a fire hazard. If anyone attempts to conduct one of these inspections on your home, immediately contact the Los Angeles Police Department.

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Renee’ Montoya, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.