The Regina Police Service has been notified of recent activity of door-to-door canvassers in Regina neighborhoods. There have been questions and concerns about the activity itself, during a pandemic, as well as the credentials of those involved in the canvassing.
At this time, door-to-door canvassing is allowed in Saskatchewan under the current Public Health Order and police have confirmed that some organizations have in fact been canvassing legitimately over the last few weeks. However, we have also received police reports of suspicious canvassing that is performed by people who may be impersonating those from legitimate organizations. As a result, the Regina Police Service is asking residents to be diligent and informed should a canvasser come to your door.
Some tips to confirm if a canvasser/organization is legitimate:
- Canvassers should always be able to provide you with personal ID and a Charitable Registration Number.
- Canvassers should always be able to provide you with a receipt for tax purposes.
- Canvassers should always be able to answer questions about the organization or charity they represent.
- Canvassers should always provide alternative options to in-person payment and should not press residents for personal or financial information at the door. Ask for options such as making a donation online or over the phone to a reputable organization.
If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about the canvasser at your residence, do not open your door or politely decline. If you feel the canvassing may be fraudulent, please contact the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500.
There are provincial guidelines in place to ensure public safety while canvassing during COVID-19. Here is a link that includes the guidelines laid out by the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
Door-to-Door Canvassing and Sales Guideline.
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