(Washington, DC) Identity theft is one of America's fastest growing crimes. Shredding your personal papers is one of the best ways to protect yourself.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has teamed up with NBC4, Mercantile Potomac Bank, Shred-It, and Staples, Inc. to bring you the next NBC4 Safe & Secure Community Shred event. Bring up to five boxes of your personal papers to the location specified below and we will shred them for FREE! No business or commercial material will be accepted.

What  Safe & Secure Community Shred Event
When  June 16, 2007, 8 am to 11 am (Note: Cars must be in line by 11 am)
Where  City Center Parking Lot, 11th and H Streets, NW, Washington, DC

We will accept the following items:

• All types of paper (Staples and papers clips are OK)
• Empty binders
• Unwanted/expired credit cards
• Computer disks may be shredded offsite

Identity Theft Prevention Tips:

• Shred confidential information: bills, old credit cards, and even junk mail.
• Order a credit report on an annual basis.
• Do not carry your social security card or have your social security number on your driver’s license or personal checks.
• Do not leave mail in your box over night or weekends.
• Only carry the credit cards you need.
• Consider signing credit cards "Ask for ID" instead of your signature.