The Better Business Bureau will host its bi-annual shredding event from 9 a.m.-noon, Friday, Oct. 16, at Clear Creek Church of Christ, 5612 Hixson Pike, and Saturday, Oct. 17, at Lee Pointe (the intersection of Lee Highway and Highway 153.
The program is part of the BBB’s effort to help people protect themselves from identity theft. The public is invited to bring up to three boxes of documents to be shredded for free.
The BBB will also shred two PC hard drives for free. Additionally, PC components may be donated for recycling.
Consumers may also bring unused medications for proper disposal. The BBB is asking that people bring the medications in the original container with the personal information marked out.
This is the 14th year BBBs across North America have hosted this community event.
The BBB will observe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, with consumers remaining in their vehicles and wearing a mask while talking with staff members.
The BBB sent the Hamilton County Herald his FAQ containing additional information about the shredding event:
What size boxes?
Boxes need to be small enough to allow one person to lift them out of your car.
What if I have more than three boxes to be shredded?
We might be able to accommodate extra boxes, depending on space. However, we reserve the right to refuse to shred extra boxes.
How do I know it’s safe to drop off my confidential documents?
Shred It, a professional document destruction company, will shred any documents you bring on the spot. If you like, you may watch them shred the documents. Hard drives will also be shredded on-site. If needed, resources will be available to remove the hard drive from the PC. PCs may also be recycled.
Do I need to remove staples, paper clips and other metal objects?
No. However, we ask that you remove any large metal clips, notebook covers, etc. Also, do not bring items in plastic bags, which cannot be shredded and might jam the shredder.
Is there a charge?
No. The event is free and provided as a community service by the Better Business Bureau and its community partners, which include Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, Shred It, Resource 1 Tier 3 Data Security and the Hamilton County Coalition.
What needs to be shredded?
Any unneeded document containing your personal information, such as your driver’s license number, Social Security number, bank account number, financial account statements and birth date records needs to be shredded. We also recommend shredding things like pre-approved credit offers, which identity thieves can steal out of your mailbox or garbage cans and use to take out credit cards in your name.
Will the event be held if it rains?
Shred Day will be conducted rain or shine.
Information
Source: BBB