News Flash

Here are some tips to help keep you safe when someone comes knocking at your door:

• Don’t open your door at odd hours. Solicitors shouldn’t be knocking on your door before 10:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m.
• Use peep-holes or security cameras, such as Ring, to determine who is at your door.
• Refuse to open the door to anyone you don’t know or aren’t comfortable with. If a solicitor refuses to leave after being asked to, or becomes irate, call 911.
• Consider talking to sales people through the door, or security system - such as Ring.
• Don’t be pressured to make a rushed purchase. Most products being sold door-to-door can be obtained by contacting the company directly.
• Never give solicitors personal information or disclose that you are home alone.
• Utilize "No Soliciting" signs near your door if you do not want door-to-door solicitation. These are available free of charge for pick up at the Village Hall or Police Department. 
• Always ask to see their Village of Channahon solicitor’s permit. If they can’t or won’t show you, politely end the conversation and call (815) 467-2112 to report them. You can always verify the validity of the Village’s solicitor’s permit by contacting the police.
• If you suspect a solicitor is not legitimate, take note of details you can observe, such as the person’s personal appearance including height, approximate weight, hair and eye color, clothing description, and description of a vehicle if applicable, and contact police.
• Consider contacting your neighbors, and put them on alert. 
• Avoid paying for goods and services up front. If you don’t feel comfortable giving the solicitor any money, DON’T! Do not let anyone "guilt" you into giving them money or buying their product. If you’ve already purchased something from a solicitor, and have paid by check and no longer feel comfortable with the transaction, cancel the check as soon as possible. If a credit or debit card was used, contact your bank or credit card company and follow their recommendations.
• Don’t crack under the pressure. You have no obligation to buy something "right now." You can ask them to make an appointment to come back when it’s convenient for you. Reserve your right to say "no." The longer you engage in the conversation, the greater the chance you will commit to something.
• At no time should you let anyone in your house, or be drawn outside your house!
• Remember that you are in charge. If you feel intimidated, pressured or threatened at any time, call 911.