“Knock Knock… Who's There?”
- The person is acting suspicious or aggressive
- They refuse to leave
- You feel threatened in any way
- “24-Hour Video Surveillance”
- “Smile! You’re on Camera”
- “Cameras in Use – Footage is Recorded”
- “Security Patrol in Area”
- “Beware of Dog” (classic, effective)
- “Dog on Premises – Do Not Enter”
- “Guard Dog – No Trespassing”
- “No Soliciting – We Don’t Buy, Sell, or Switch Services”
- “Private Property – No Trespassing”
- “Do Not Knock or Ring – Sleeping Baby / Dogs Will Bark” (friendly but firm)
- “This Home is a Member of a Neighborhood Watch Program”
- “Active Community Watch – Suspicious Activity Will Be Reported”
- “Protected by Local Neighborhood Association”
- “Monitored by Law Enforcement Partners”
- “This Property Cooperates with Local Police”
Tips for What to Do When a Stranger Knocks on Your DOOR
Our Community Service Officer Jenn Wright says:
If it's day time and you're comfortable with answering the door, answer it like normal but don't provide any information like full name, driver's license number, and social security number. If they are selling anything and you're interested, ask for their business card. If you don't feel comfortable, you can either ignore it or answer through the door by announcing you're home.
During the night time when you're not expecting anyone, I would announce through the door with the phone ready to call the Police in case anything happens. We've had incidents where people are knocking at the door asking for help, you can call the Police for them with the door closed. If you feel comfortable and safe, you can make contact with them if you want to, but don't feel obligated to open the door.
Regardless of the time of day, if something seems suspicious to you, call our department at (727) 893-7780. If you're able to safely do it, give the police a description of the subject, and what it is that feels suspicious about their actions, for example: they keep coming back and won't leave you alone, or it's 11 PM at night and they're banging at the door.
Jenn added that when you call the police, the dispatcher will stay on the line with you until help arrives.
Here is some more information from the web:
Stranger at the Door? Stay Safe with This Quick Checklist
BEFORE Opening the Door:
Do NOT open the door automatically — even if they seem polite or persistent.
Look through a peephole, window, or camera if available — without turning on bright indoor lights.
Check to see if you're expecting someone.
Speak through the door (optional):
“I’m not opening the door. Who is it and what do you need?”
“I’m not opening the door. Who is it and what do you need?”
IF YOU FEEL UNSAFE:
Trust your instincts.
If it feels wrong, it probably is.
If it feels wrong, it probably is.
Call 911 immediately if:
Use the Non-Emergency Line (if not urgent):
727-893-7780 – St. Petersburg Police
727-893-7780 – St. Petersburg Police
additional SAFETY TIPS (from the internet):
Keep doors locked at all times — even when you’re home.
Leave porch lights on at night.
Install a camera or video doorbell (or even a fake one).
Pretend you're not alone — say “Let me get my husband/wife.”
REMEMBER:
You are never bothering the police by calling if you feel unsafe.
Better safe than sorry.
You are never bothering the police by calling if you feel unsafe.
Better safe than sorry.
