Don’t open your door to potential danger

Solicitors can be a bit of a nuisance and even dangerous at times; however, there are some precautions that can be taken to ensure your safety.

Allison Vankatwyk has been living in Rexburg with her family for almost three years.

“Rexburg is a bit on the safer side so I am more trusting,” Vankatwyk said.

However, you can never be too trusting when a stranger is at your door selling something, Vankatwyk said.

“I always second guess because why is it worth the risk?” Vankatwyk said.

Rexbug City Clerk Blair Kay said there have been some cases where burglars have posed as salesmen who work for reputable companies and have assaulted the person or committed worst crimes.

“There have been cases in St. Anothony and Idaho Falls where there has been a rape involved,” Kay said.

The city has taken steps to ensure your safety.

“We have an ordinance that requires that businesses in Rexburg to register and that includes mobile vendors and solicitors,” Kay said.

A background check is conducted and an identification card is issued to the person.

“They need to fill out proper paper work so we know who they are and what their intent is,” Kay said.

The registration process can be costly and time consuming Kay said.

“We have to wait for state police to do a background check so it’s kind of prohibitive that way. If they want to do it for a month it’s $300. If they want to do it for a quarter, it’s $500,” Kay said.

Vankatwyk said the most important tip she offers for when there is a salesperson at the door is too let them know you are not alone, and knowing that you have rights.

“Knowing that you have the right to shut the door is key,” she said.