Free Public Shredding Day allows for safe disposal of sensitive documents

As the threat of identity theft looms larger than ever, security experts recommend that citizens avoid tossing even some junk mail into the waste bin, as it could wind up in the hands of someone looking to turn those credit card offers into a fake identity for themselves—and a big headache for the victim.

Shredding, experts say, is the safest way to dispose of documents such as credit card offers, bank records and old tax returns that are past the IRS recommendation of three-to-seven years, depending upon your situation. According to identity theft experts at the online company Identity Theft Killer.com, “dumpster diving”, or sorting through trash, is a major source of information that leads to the theft of personal information.

On Saturday, Oct. 6, Warren County residents will be able to bring up to five boxes of documents to the Front Royal Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department at 221 N. Commerce Avenue for the Free Public Shredding Day. The event runs from 9 a.m. – noon or until the truck is filled.

Event organizer Janice Hart said the event, which began about 10 years ago, is “all about community service.” There was a need, she said, and Howard Sevel, at Skyline Insurance Agency agreed to sponsor the first event, and Ms. Hart volunteered. Over the years, she has remained as the coordinator of the event.

This year, the Free Public Shredding Day is cosponsored by Skyline Insurance Agency, Liberty Tax Service and Union Bank. Volunteers from the sponsors, as well as Warren County High School, Skyline High School, and the Warren Coalition will be on hand to help the public assist with lifting and carrying boxes from vehicles.

Ms. Hart says donations will be accepted and will benefit the Warren Coalition which helps support a safe, healthy and drug-free community for youth.

If you plan to bring items for shredding:
· Paper products only. Staples, paper clips and large binder clips need not be removed.
· Plastics, CDS/DVDs, electronics, cardboard, newspapers, magazines, and binders must be removed prior to shredding.
· Line up early.

Ms. Hart said the truck holds five tons of paper, but it never fails to amaze her how quickly the PROSHRED truck fills up.