When conducting sales or purchases of items from a private individual, it’s best to conduct the actual transaction in a public place. The City of Fairfield Police Department offers a Safe Exchange Zone for residents to make online purchases and exchange transactions in a monitored area.
The Safe Exchange Zone is in the parking lot adjacent to the Police Station on Kentucky and Jackson. There are two designated parking spaces under 24-hr surveillance.
When using the Safe Exchange Zones here's a few things to keep in mind:
- Fairfield Police or City of Fairfield personnel will not be present or assist with any transactions
- The exchange of drugs, weapons, alcohol and other illegal items is not permitted
- The Safe Exchange Zone is meant for person-to-person transactions. Property may not be dropped off and left unattended.
- Sellers are required to take their property with them if the buyer does not show up
- The Police Department encourages the use of Safe Exchange Zones for buyers and sellers of OfferUp, Craigslist, LetGo and other e-commerce apps. This location is monitored by the Police Department 24/7, if you have an emergency dial 9-1-1 or for non-emergency (707) 428-7300.
Safety Tips:
- Only conduct transactions with local buyers/sellers.
- If it’s a high-priced transaction, do it at a bank
- Insist on meeting in a public place.
- Do not invite strangers into your home, and do not go to theirs.
- Take your cell phone with you.
- If you are selling a large piece of furniture, move the piece to an open garage or front porch.
- Tell a friend or family member about your intentions. Tell them when and where and with whom you are meeting - if possible, bring them with you!
- Complete transactions during daylight hours.
- Be extra cautious in buying/selling valuable items.
- Only use cash or money orders.
- Trust your instincts and be cautious of scams.
