Carlsbad Police's Tips to Handle Unwanted Solicitors

The  is offering tips for handling phone and door-to-door solicitors, a source of concern for many residents.  

“Safety should be your first thought when dealing with strangers who call or visit your home, for any reason,” said Crime Prevention Specialist Jodee Sasway. “The city’s Police Department is just a phone call away if residents have questions or concerns about residential safety.” 

Sasway recommends following these tips: 

Never open your door to someone you do not know. You do not know what is motivating the stranger on the other side. Look through the peep hole and, if you do not know the person, say “no, thank you” through the door. You want them to know someone is at home, but you do not want to get into a conversation with them. They are trained to keep you talking. If they will not go away, call the Police Department at 760-931-2197, and let a police officer handle the situation. If the stranger approaches you while outside, say “no, thank you” and go inside and lock the door. Keep an eye on the solicitor as they proceed down the street and if they behave suspiciously, call the Police Department immediately. Consider joining Neighborhood Watch, and the Police Department will train you to be the eyes and ears of your street. 

Screen phone calls. Before giving out any information or letting the caller know who you are, ask the caller “who is calling?” If the caller only gives a name (for example, Mary), ask what company the caller is with. If it is an unsolicited call, ask the caller to put you on their “do not call list” then hang up the phone. Many times, the solicitors are trained to not hang up until you do. 

Sign up for the national “do not call” registry. It’s easy and it’s free. Call 888-382-1222 or 866-290-4326 from the phone number you want to register. Unfortunately, registering by phone may not work if you live in a residential complex that uses a PBX phone system. But you can also register online at donotcall.gov. You will need Internet access and a working email address. 

Be skeptical of solicitors claiming city endorsement.  From time to time, solicitors might say or seem to imply they are soliciting money or offering a service on behalf of the . The city does not solicit money from residents or endorse services. Always verify such claims directly with the city by calling the city at 760-434-2820.