From the CA Message Board on FR:
LAPD warns of scam fire 'inspections'
http://www.washtimes.com/upi-breaking/20031028-010202-8777r.htm LOS ANGELES, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- Los Angeles residents were warned Tuesday that cat burglars were using the nearby wildfires as a diversion to get inside their homes and steal.
Police officials said thieves posing as fire inspectors have been targeting seniors in recent days.
The scam artists knock on doors and seek permission come inside to check the water pressure, or they go into the backyard to look for trees that ostensibly might be a fire hazard. Once the resident is distracted, the "inspector's" cohort slips inside and quickly grabs whatever jewelry or property of value that is convenient.
The LAPD said residents near the fire lines shouldn't allow strangers into their backyards, and reminded them that water pressure for firefighting isn't checked from the inside.