Don't Be A Victim A Second Time 

Release Date: February 10, 2002
Release Number: 1401-03

» More Information on Oklahoma Ice Storm

Oklahoma City, OK -- If you were affected by the winter ice storm, you should be aware that some unscrupulous contractors may try to take advantage of you.

"If you have disaster-related damages, I urge you to be very careful when contracting for repairs," Jim Roche, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Coordinating Officer said.

"Be especially alert for door-to-door solicitors who ask for large cash deposits or entire payments in advance," Fred Liebe, State Coordinating Officer of the Oklahoma Department of Civil Emergency Management, said. "Often the work is never performed or the down payment is never returned."

Liebe also cautioned residents not to sign contracts or make down payments without first receiving written estimates from contractors and to avoid offers which seem too good to refuse. He also advised people to ask for references and to check with relatives or friends before deciding which contractor to choose, or check with the state's Better Business Bureau and local business organizations for complaints against the contractor. Residents should also make sure the contractor carries general liability and workers' compensation insurance.

Disaster victims should call the Oklahoma State Attorney General's Consumer Protection hotline, 405-521-2029, if they have concerns about people representing themselves as contractors or charging overly high prices for alternate fuels and other items related to disaster recovery.

In the process of providing disaster assistance, FEMA inspectors may make an appointment and visit your home to verify disaster damages. Federal and state employees carry official photo identification. If someone represents themselves as a federal or state employee but does not produce identification, residents are urged to ask to see it.

"You should remember that federal and state workers and federal contract workers do not charge victims for their services," said Roche. "If someone posing as a disaster employee or federal contractor attempts to collect money for their help, report the person and their vehicle number to your local police department."

To begin the disaster assistance process, those affected by the winter ice storm in the disaster-designated counties can apply for assistance immediately by calling the FEMA toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with a speech or hearing impairment can call 1-800-462-7585 (TTY). Both lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice and multi-lingual operators are available.

Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered by your insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other types of help may come in the form of loans. The FEMA representative will explain the details to you when you call.

Counties eligible for individual disaster assistance include Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Cimarron, Cleveland, Comanche, Creek, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Kay, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Lincoln, Logan, Major, McClain, Noble, Nowata, Oklahoma, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, Roger Mills, Rogers, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Tulsa, Washington, Washita, Woods, and Woodward.

Last Modified: Monday, 25-Aug-2003 13:27:51