PHONE FIREFIGHTER FUNDRAISING SCAM EXPOSED IN ALPINE

May 24, 2011 (Alpine) –Alpine Fire Protection District Fire Marshal Mary Tedesco advises that she received a phone call today from a resident who was called by a person claiming to be a representative from the Fireman’s Association—asking for a $500 donation.

“Firefighters DO NOT solicit for money,” Tedesco advised in a bulletin sent to the Alpine Community Network. “The only time we collect money is for the annual boot drive on the streets (in uniform) for the Burn Institute, and that takes place all over San Diego for just one day. Other than that.......NO PHONE CALLS OR ASKING FOR MONEY EVER!”

If you are contacted by one of these phony solicitors, Tedesco recommends asking them to send literature—and get their phone number.

“ I hope that no one has fallen victim to yet another scam,” the Fire Marshal concluded.

If you have questions or additional information, call the Alpine Fire Protection District at 619 445-2635.