CAJON PASS – (INT) – Issues are likely to remain for months in the wake of the destructive Blue Cut Fire.

County DA Mike Ramos warns of frauds and scams that may be perpetrated on the victims. Among them:

For at least 30 days after an emergency is declared, businesses and individuals are not allowed to increase prices by more than 10% for rental houses, hotels and motels, food, drink, (including for animals), tools, construction materials, etc.

Public adjusters are people who want to represent you in dealing with your insurance company. Public Adjusters get a percentage of the money the insurer pays for your loss. Check carefully to see if they are what you need.

Unscrupulous vendors will often sell substandard materials to victims.

Con artists try to collect funds for non-existent charities. Only give to those you know are reliable.

Some door-to-door solicitors are just trying to take your money

Fraudulent contractors are those working without a license

Fake disaster officials are rip-off artists will claim that you must pay a processing fee to secure relief. Check their credentials.

In other notes, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says that school districts, charter schools, and county offices of education will continue to receive state funding despite a possible loss of student attendance revenues because of wildfires.

County Assessor Bob Dutton says that property tax relief will be available for victims hit hard by the Blue Cut Fire.

Story Date: August 28, 2016