GWENT residents should be cautious when dealing with firms selling home alarm systems, police and trading standards officers warn.

Police have received reports that home security companies have been cold-calling residents in Monmouthshire, sometimes making false claims to persuade people to buy their products.

Some have falsely told homeowners police will not attend incidents of burglary, even if a burglar is still on the premises.

Monmouthshire Trading Standards are investigating and advise consumers not to purchase security systems from cold-calling companies, either on the telephone or at the door.

They say residents should get quotes from at least three security companies who are subject to independent inspection by a recognised body; either NSI (The National Security Inspectorate) or SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board).

Anyone who feels a product is being sold through misrepresentation should inform the Citizens Advice Consumer Service by calling 08454 040506, or call Gwent Police on 101 if you believe a crime has been committed.