It has been brought to GCAAR's attention that calls are being made from a phone number in Silver Spring stating they have a pre-approval letter in an attempt to see vacant houses. The caller also is making very lewd comments in the process.  Please take a moment to review any procedures you or your office have in place to ensure your safety.  

*    Checking in - When you have a new client, ask him/her to stop by your office and complete a Prospect Identification Form (Find a copy online at www.REALTOR.org/Safety). Also, photocopy their driver's license and retain this information at your office. Be certain to properly discard this personal information when you no longer need it.
*    Keep it light - Show properties before dark. If you are going to be working after hours, advise your associate or first-line supervisor of your schedule. If you must show a property after dark, turn on all lights as you go through, and don't lower any shades or draw curtains or blinds.
*    From dawn till dusk - When showing a vacant commercial site, be aware of the time of day you meet a client. Showing a property at dusk or after dark, with no electricity on in the space you are showing, is not advisable.
*    Choose flight over fight - While every real estate agent should take a basic self-defense course, the primary goal in any threatening situation is to escape from immediate danger and call for help.
*    Be prepared: pre-program! - To best prepare for an emergency, pre-program important numbers into your cell phone. These may include your office, your roadside assistance service or garage, and 9-1-1.
*    Don't use the "v word" - When describing a listing, never say that a property is "vacant." This may be an invitation to criminals.
*    Have a lifeline - If you find yourself to be the last one in an open house and your car is not in the immediate vicinity of the venue, then make a phone call as you walk. Assailants will be less willing to attack if you are in mid conversation with another person. Give your best friend a call; they would love to hear about your day.

Additional FREE safety resources are available online at realtor.org/safety