The San Diego County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about donation mailers that ask for money to buy equipment for law enforcement agencies, according to East County Magazine.

The mailers were sent by the United States Deputy Sheriff's Association, East County Magazine reported. The Sheriff's Office said in a social media warning that it does not ask the public for money to buy bulletproof vests, helmets or other supplies for deputies.

The warning matters across Santee and East County because scam-style solicitations often use public safety language to look official. Residents who receive a law enforcement-related donation request should verify the organization before giving money.

The Sheriff's Office advises people to research any charity before donating and contact their local law enforcement agency if they are unsure whether a solicitation is legitimate.