Pa state legislature recognizes Realtor® Safety Month with resolution

The Pennsylvania state legislature is recognizing September as Realtor® Safety Month.

Rep. Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery) introduced the resolution to the House earlier this month, and Sen. Wayne Fontana (D-Allegheny) introduced it in the Senate yesterday.

“The men and women who help us through the most stressful times of our lives – buying or selling a home – are put in risky situations when they’re showing homes in isolated locations to complete strangers. There have always been at least a few homicides each year among real estate agents, and the rates are only increasing,” Toepel said. “I sponsored a resolution designating September as Realtor® Safety Month in Pennsylvania to remind Realtors® to prioritize their safety, as well as that of their clients, in an effort to reverse the sobering new trend.”

This year marks the 14^th year the National Association of Realtors® has recognized September as Realtor® Safety Month.

“In the past few years, we have seen several Realtors® become victims of terrible crimes. We are thankful the Pennsylvania legislature recognizes this importance of Realtor® Safety Month, and are promoting the safety and protection of agents,” said PAR President Kathy McQuilkin.

Sen. Fontana, a Realtor®, echoed his concerns about safety among his peers in the industry.

“The purpose of this resolution is to highlight the importance that Realtors® need to be vigilant with regard to safety during occasions, like open houses and while in vacant properties. As a Realtor® myself, I learned that we must all be mindful that possible danger can exist, especially in areas with unsecured properties, and urge my colleagues and their clients to remember to keep careful watch for any unsavory activity in or around properties they may be visiting,” added Fontana.