Avoid opening the door to unfamiliar individuals. If you feel uneasy, refrain from opening the door and contact 911 if faced with an aggressive solicitor or stranger seeking entry into your home. You are not obliged to greet unknown visitors.
Here are several safety tips:
- Educate your children on how to respond if they are alone and someone approaches the house or peeks through windows.
- If solicitors approach you outside, decline their advances politely, return indoors, and secure your door. Engaging in conversation only encourages solicitation.
- If a solicitor refuses to leave peacefully, call 9-1-1 and provide a detailed description along with their direction of travel.
- Observe the actions of solicitors, noting any suspicious behavior like peering into car windows, testing door locks, or entering backyards.
- Protect yourself from identity theft by refraining from providing credit card information or checks to unfamiliar solicitors, ascertaining their legitimacy can be challenging.
- Maintain locked doors and windows, utilizing storm or security doors for safe communication with solicitors.
- Display a "no solicitors" sign to deter unwanted visitors.
- Refuse to give money if you feel uncomfortable, and do not let guilt sway your decision.
- If you've made a purchase but feel uneasy, cancel the check promptly if payment was by check.
- Disregard stories aimed at gaining entry, such as claims of living in the neighborhood or having a broken-down vehicle.
- Never allow strangers inside, especially if they request to use your phone.
- Avoid hiring individuals who offer services door-to-door and refrain from making payments before work is completed.
- Exercise caution with door-to-door sales and marketing tactics, as legitimate businesses often use other means such as mail, social media, and email for promotion.
No solicitors signs are available at Village Hall and the Police Department during regular office hours. If you wish to receive a sign via mail, please contact Village Hall at 847-358-7740.
Additionally, the Village mandates that solicitors register and acquire permits.