How to Safeguard Your Home from Storm Damage Scams

Updated on: October 9, 2024 6:22 am GMT

Oklahoma Tops National Disaster Statistics: Preparation Is Key

Oklahoma, infamous for its volatile weather patterns, has been declared the state with the highest number of federally declared disasters per capita. As September ushers in National Preparedness Month, local organizations are ramping up efforts to educate families and businesses on effective disaster preparedness strategies. Carrie Suns, Community Relations Coordinator for the Oklahoma Medical Reserve Corps, emphasizes that while tornadoes strike fear in the hearts of Oklahomans, it is extreme heat that poses a significant yet often overlooked threat.

• The Range of Disasters

According to Suns, Oklahoma is vulnerable to a variety of disasters, spanning from ice storms and wildfires to floods and tornadoes. “We’ve got everything except for volcanoes and tsunamis,” she noted. Data from the Oklahoma State Department of Health reveals that the state recorded 141 heat-related deaths between 2013 and 2022, highlighting heat’s deadly potential even as residents brace for the upcoming cold weather.

Building a Preparedness Kit

In light of these threats, experts urge families to develop a disaster preparedness plan and create a survival kit. Suns encourages households to assemble kits that may be essential for evacuation or shelter-in-place scenarios.

Amie Mitchell, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Tulsa, advises including vital supplies in your preparedness kit, such as:

• Water and non-perishable food items
• A first aid kit
• Cash
• Flashlights

Mitchell recommends that individuals also jot down key contacts, including insurance providers and trusted contractors, to streamline communication during crises.

Emergency Training Initiatives

The Tulsa Health Department has initiated an emergency preparedness and response program, readying locals for potential natural or man-made disasters. The program covers essential skills, such as CPR and hemorrhage control, emphasizing the importance of equipping Oklahomans with life-saving techniques.

This proactive stance is critical, especially following alarming trends in heat-related incidents. Reports indicate that in 2023, EMSA received 930 calls related to heat illnesses, which resulted in 577 transports.

Beware of Storm Chasers: Tips from the Better Business Bureau

While preparedness is imperative, residents should also be wary of unscrupulous contractors, commonly known as “storm chasers.” The BBB is alerting Oklahoma residents to the potential hazards posed by these entities, especially following storms, when demand for repairs surges.

Understanding Storm Chasers

Storm chasers often flock to affected areas, seeking to capitalize on the urgency of repairs following significant weather events. While not all storm chasers are dishonest, many may lack proper licensing, make unrealistic promises, or offer subpar fixes. The BBB emphasizes the importance of hiring reputable, trustworthy local contractors, even if it means waiting longer for service.

Steps for Hiring Trustworthy Contractors

To combat potential scams, the BBB suggests an eight-step approach when hiring any contractor:

1. Contact your insurance company first. Understand your policy coverage, specific filing requirements, and deductible.
2. Research businesses using the BBB website for accredited contractors.
3. Ignore high-pressure sales tactics that push immediate decisions.
4. Be cautious with door-to-door offers. Confirm contractor identification and check for proper licensing.
5. Do not sign over insurance checks to contractors.
6. Avoid full upfront payments; verify terms of any deposits.
7. Be wary of inspections that involve inaccessible areas of your property.
8. Regularly monitor your home’s exterior condition to provide a basis for comparison with any contractor’s evaluation.

Protecting Consumer Interests

The BBB also cautions contractors to remain vigilant against other storm chasers posing as local businesses. These scammers may use established names to mislead customers, collect insurance money, and abandon projects, leaving property owners facing unfinished repairs and unfulfilled warranties.

For more guidance on natural disaster preparedness and to find reliable contractors, residents can visit the BBB’s Natural Disaster HQ page at bbb.org/all/natural-disasters. The organization offers practical advice and resources to navigate the complexities of hiring trustworthy professionals during emergencies.

As Oklahoma gets ready for different weather conditions, it’s important to stay prepared and alert. Being ready and making smart choices can help protect families and their homes from disasters and scams.