Maryland State Police have cautioned county residents to be aware of telephone solicitations from a company representing "The Maryland State and Washington D.C. Professional Fire Fighters Union."
Police said several residents have been misled by the solicitation and that none of the money collected goes to Carroll County firefighters. The money is being raised for the AFL-CIO union, which represents area career firefighters, they said.
Investigators said as of Jan. 30, the soliciting company, Civic Development Co. from New Jersey, and the union had failed to comply with Maryland law by registering with the Charitable Organization Division of the secretary of state's office and filing required reports.
Residents should ask where the money goes and who the donations benefit.
If the charity or solicitor is operating legally, they will provide information or documents to verify their information.
Never give a credit card number over the telephone for a charitable donation, state police said.
For additional information, contact the Maryland State Police Crime Prevention Unit at 876-2101 or the Maryland Charitable Organization Division at (410) 974-5534.