Kenosha, Wisconsin — The local fire department is warning business owners of people impersonating fire officials in a new scam.
The Kenosha Fire Department stated that someone recently entered a local business and claimed to work for the fire department. The business owner was then scammed out of cash for refilling the fire extinguisher. Police said the suspect was in plain clothes.
The fire department said its personnel did conduct inspections, but were always in uniform and had city-issued ID. The department will also never ask for cash payment for any of the services they provide.
The Caledonian Fire Service said they had received information about a similar incident. A Main Street business owner said a woman came in recently asking to see a fire extinguisher. The business owner claims the woman said it needed repairs and offered to pay $40.
The business owner said the woman left after being questioned. This woman has only one tab and one clipboard. She and another man got into an unmarked SUV and left.
If you think you have been a victim, it is important to contact your local fire and police departments.
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