The RCMP are advising residents of a scam involving door-to-door sales of driveway paving services. Constable Sean O'Keefe says the scam is here in Manitoba.

"We've received a couple of complaints from different business owners and homeowners here in the town advising us that people are going door to door offering paving for their driveways at a discounted rate. They're asking for the money up front, as they're onto another jobsite just at that time, and that they would be back as soon as possible to finish the job. In some instances, they'll even start the job, but they have to leave for some reason and they never return."

O'Keefe says they might do some preparation work and put sealant on your driveway, and block off the end of your driveway. At such a point, it's only a show to cover their agenda by using material anyone can obtain quickly, and then leave to find their next victim.

He explains how you can tell if the offer's genuine or not.

"Any reputable business here operating within the town will have a town business license. They'll be able to produce their credentials when asked. Ask for identification, and if they have a business card, or if they have anything there. These are just points of contact where you might be able to follow up with them again civilly, if you're able to identify them and they don't go through with their work."

In the last month, similar incidents took place across Saskatchewan and are moving eastward toward Ontario. O'Keefe notes they're not local people, and are the type who move on as quickly as possible to find others and flee the area. So far no one has been victimized locally to the knowledge of the RCMP, but they urge you to contact them if you have, and they will do their best to assist you.

O'Keefe adds the rule is buyer beware. An apparent deal that's too good to be true most likely is.