Officials warn of firefighter charity phone scam

BETHANY BEACH, Del. – Fire officials across Delaware are warning residents of a new scam where callers are asking for donations for a firefighter charity.  Officials say they’ve received multiple phone calls today about the scam. They say the scam involves the caller pretending to raise money for fire departments across Kent and Sussex county but it is not a legitimate fundraiser. Officials are asking that you do not provide any of your information to these callers or send money. And to hang up the phone as soon as possible.

“If they get that phone call just disregard it hang up. Most of your local volunteer fire companies will just send mail asking for donations very rare would you ever hear of a volunteer fire company making phone calls if you have any questions at all just call your local fire company and ask them,” said Assistant Chief for the Bethany Beach Volunteer Fire Company Phil Brackin.

Officials say there is no need to call the police department if you’ve received the call because they are untraceable.  But if you are interested in giving money to your local fire departments officials say you’re encouraged to call them to get more information on how to donate.