This is still a prime time for hackers and scammers to take advantage of people. And not all scams arrive via email. Text messages, phone calls and even door-to-door “helpers” offering services are increasing this week as we thaw from the storm.
Many of these are legitimate businesses that do honest, quality work, but some are scammers looking to exploit urgency, confusion or fear.
🏡 Be Scam-Aware with these Tips
Confirm credentials - legitimate contractors will provide licenses and insurance information.
Check references - ask them for local business listings, former customers and verify their reviews.
Don’t pay up front - hold payments until work is completed and inspected.
Notify neighbors - if you do have someone come to your door who seems sketchy (demands cash payment in advance, shows up with no identification or pressures you to sign contracts immediately), let your neighbors know, especially those who may not spot those red flags.
Tree Clean up
I see all kinds of signs in yards in my neighborhood advertising various tree services. You may be able to clean up smaller limbs and damaged trees, but you may also find that trees that are still standing today have been seriously damaged and will fall over eventually.
🌳 Safety Tips for Tree Clean Up
Safely inspect trees after the ice and snow melt.
Look for split trunks, hanging limbs and trees near structures or roadways.
Limit what you fix/clean up yourself to minor damage and what you can reach from the ground. Know your limitations!
Hire an ISA Certified Arborist for major damage that will require special equipment or skill. You can find one at the Trees Are Good website.
Major Tree Damage
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🛡️ Stay Secure, Powered Up, and Scam-Aware
Storm conditions make life harder, and that’s exactly when scammers try to take advantage. Being aware of their tactics, relying on official sources for updates, and slowing down before clicking or signing anything are your best defenses.
Stay safe, stay warm, and let’s look out for one another. ❤️
🎆 The Good News
That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe.
1 Timothy 4:10
Be safe,
