SHERIFF'S OFFICE ISSUES DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES SAFETY TIPS

Douglas Co. Sheriff's Office

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - There have been several reports over the last couple days of door-to-door sales people selling aromatherapy/air purifier/diffuser products.  In some of these reports, the sales person has pushed their way into the home of a person who has said they are not interested.  The sales person usually female and appears to be alone but when she leaves, she gets into a vehicle (a grey Chevy Suburban or a White Ford Explorer) that is occupied by two males. The legitimacy of these salespersons is unclear; what is clear is that their sales tactics are suspicious and that you should use caution when dealing with door-to-door sales people as a general rule.  

Here are a few tips to help keep you safe when someone comes knocking at your door.

• Use peep-holes to determine who is at your door, and keep your porch light on in the evening.

• Refuse to open the door to anyone you don’t know or aren’t comfortable with.

• Talk to sales people through the door and let them know you aren’t interested. Most products being sold door-to-door can be obtained by contacting the company directly.

• Never give door-to-door salespeople personal information or disclose that you are home alone.

• Utilize “No Soliciting” signs near your door.

• If you suspect a door-to-door-salesperson is not legitimate, take note of details you can observe without opening your door, such as the person’s personal appearance including height, approximate weight, hair and eye color, clothing description, and description of a vehicle if applicable.

• Contact your neighbors and put them on alert! 

Report suspicious persons or activities to your local law enforcement.