Scam Warnings! Please Beware These Are Going Around

The Delivery Scam

You receive a random text or email stating that your delivery will be sent back to the sender. Unless you click on a link and pay the small amount due. Once you’ve entered your details onto this bogus replica site. Your card payment details are copied. What happens next is a spending spree courtesy of you!

Unauthorised Purchase Scam

You get a message claiming that there has been a suspicious unauthorised transaction on your account. In order to stop it you will have to verify your details either by phone or by a dodgy link.

The Missed Call Scam

You receive a random missed call on your mobile. The natural inclination is to call that mystery number right back.

The problem is this could be the missed calls scam! Where you call the number back. Which is secretly redirected to an expensive premium rate phone line. This generally catches people out because the numbers cycle back appears to be a regular mobile or landline number.

Gas/Water Leak Scam

Two people turn up claiming that there’s a leak on your road. While one’s keeping you distracted. The other ones quickly liberating your valuables.

The Laptop/Computer Scam

You get a bogus call claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple or Google There is either a problem with your PC or they have detected suspicious activity.

They want to remote onto your PC to check or fix the problem.

Ironically the problem is if you did you’ll be locked out of your own computer and all your personal data will be stolen.

Confused About Canes?

V I Safety colleague wearing V I safety branded clothing showing a symbol cane

The Symbol/ID Cane

A symbol or ID cane is a lightweight white cane used to indicate a visual impairment. It is typically held diagonally from one shoulder to the opposite waist. Red banding on the cane signifies that the user has both a visual and hearing impairment.

V I safety Colleague showing a guide cane

The Guide Cane

A guide cane is a mobility aid used by blind and partially sighted individuals to detect obstacles, curbs, and changes in elevation. Held diagonally across the body, it assists with orientation and object detection in close proximity, providing greater confidence and spatial awareness in unfamiliar or busy environments.

The Long Cane

A long cane is a mobility aid used by blind and partially sighted people to detect obstacles and surface changes. It typically reaches the centre of the sternum and can be folded for convenience. Professional mobility training from a rehabilitation officer is recommended for safe and effective use.

Here are some of our favourite Safety Quotes and Reminders.

1. "Safety is not an accident; it's a result of conscious choices." - Anonymous

Synopsis: This quote reminds us that safety is not a matter of luck but a consequence of deliberate decisions and actions. It encourages individuals to take responsibility for their safety.

2. "Your safety is your greatest asset; protect it fiercely." - Unknown

Synopsis: This quote emphasizes the importance of valuing one's safety above all else. It encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being and take proactive measures to ensure their safety.

3. "Don't compromise safety for convenience; it's never worth the risk." - Anonymous

Synopsis: This quote urges us not to prioritize convenience over safety. It emphasizes that taking shortcuts or disregarding safety precautions can lead to severe consequences and encourages a cautious approach.

4. "Safety is not a destination; it's a continuous journey." - Unknown

Synopsis: This quote highlights that safety is an ongoing process rather than a one-time achievement. It encourages individuals to remain vigilant, constantly improving safety measures, and adapting to changing circumstances.

5. "The key to safety is not luck but preparation." - John Doe

Synopsis: This quote highlights the importance of preparation in ensuring safety. It emphasizes that being proactive, anticipating risks, and taking preventive measures are key to avoiding accidents.

Phonetic Alphabet

Clear Communication Matters: The Power of the Phonetic Alphabet

Why Good Communication is Essential

When speaking to service providers, local authorities, and organisations, especially over the phone, it’s vital to be clearly understood. Whether you’re giving your name, postcode, email address, or any important detail, unclear communication can lead to delays, errors, or frustration.

Many people don’t use tools that can help with clarity. One powerful tool is the phonetic alphabet, a standardised set of words used to represent each letter of the alphabet.

It’s used by police, emergency services, the military, call centre staff, and organisations around the world. Learning and using the phonetic alphabet can help you convey information accurately and confidently.

What Is the Phonetic Alphabet?

The phonetic alphabet assigns a word to each letter to avoid confusion when letters sound similar, like “B” and “D” or “M” and “N.” This is especially useful when spelling things over the phone or in noisy environments.

For example:

If your name is Ben, you can say:

B for Bravo, E for Echo, N for November

This removes any doubt, especially for people unfamiliar with your voice, accent, or background noise.

A – Alpha

B – Bravo

C – Charlie

D – Delta

E – Echo

F – Foxtrot

G – Golf

H – Hotel

I – India

J – Juliet

K – Kilo

L – Lima

M – Mike

N – November

O – Oscar

P – Papa

Q – Quebec

R – Romeo

S – Sierra

T – Tango

U – Uniform

V – Victor

W – Whiskey

X – X-ray

Y – Yankee

Z – Zulu

Let me know if you’d like this in braille, audio, or large print format.