Take precautions to protect your property

While Pennsbury Township residents and supervisors were talking during the July 15 meeting about people soliciting door-to-door in the area, one person made the comment that it happens every summer.

Indeed, such salespeople do seem to come out during the warmer months. But by a simple fact of human nature, not all of these people are legitimate sales reps. Some just may be criminals looking for an easy home to burglarize.

Residents want the township to do something. That, too, reflects a fact of human nature—that of looking outside for help. Often, that help is needed. But people can, and should, do things on their own.

First, people have the right to solicit. Enacting laws against it would likely be considered restraint of trade.  That said, a homeowner has the right to not answer a door, though that might let the wrong type of person think that no one is home and that it would be easy to burglarize the home.

The best course of action is simply not to let anyone in without proper identification. That ID should include a photograph. In many cases, townships with ordinances regulating solicitation will require a photo ID. Utility companies and the U.S. Census Bureau require employees to wear such identification.

Better yet, don’t let strangers in. Simply talk to them through a screen door or a slightly ajar front door. And even if it is a legitimate sales person, a homeowner has the right to slam the door in someone’s face if they are rude or otherwise too obnoxious.

And if there is any doubt as to the person’s legitimacy, call the policing agency.

Also, keep doors locked at night and when you go out. It may also be a good idea to keep them locked when home. For those who have home alarm systems, use them.

Lastly, lock car doors, too. Police reports on thefts from cars continue. Burglars do case streets looking for unlocked cars. It was just a few weeks ago when a number of cars parked in the Ridings were entered and items were taken. Along with that, don’t leave valuables in the car.

Violent crime is exceedingly rare in the greater Chadds Ford area, but burglaries and vandalism happen all too frequently. Take the proper steps to keep yourselves, your families and your property safe.

These suggestions won’t guarantee that you won’t be a victim of these street crimes, but they will help. Stay safe.

About CFLive Staff

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