May 12--PORTSMOUTH, R.I. -- The Portsmouth Water and Fire District on Friday cautioned customers about a mailing that purports to insure them against the cost of repairs if a water service line fails.

The company, HomeServe, which has a Providence post office box return address, is not affiliated with the Water and Fire District, nor has the company contacted Portsmouth Water about its solicitation, the district said in a news release.

"The mail solicitation is craftily worded and is designed to scare customers into buying this insurance," the utility said. "Portsmouth Water recommends that customers who receive the solicitation seek the assistance of family members, friends or professionals who are familiar with insurance and contracts to better understand what is being offered before proceeding."

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