WASHINGTON D.C. >> Congressman Mike Thompson (D — St. Helena) on Wednesday warned constituents to be aware of possible scams after the recent earthquake.
“Please be aware of scams and fraudulent phone calls, and watch out for suspicious activity and potential fraud,” Thompson said. “Make sure you ask to see a license, and if you suspect a scam call the authorities.”
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the most common post-disaster fraud practices include phony housing inspectors, fraudulent building contractors, bogus pleas for disaster donations and fake offers of state or federal aid.
Those who suspect fraud should call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline toll free at 1-866-720-5721. Complaints may also be made to local law enforcement agencies.
On Sunday, a magnitude-6.0 earthquake struck the Napa, Solano and Sonoma counties area at approximately 3:20 a.m. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the epicenter was 3 miles from American Canyon, 6 miles from Napa, and 8 miles from Sonoma.
The earthquake was the largest to hit the Bay Area in 25 years. Gov. Jerry Brown has declared a State of Emergency.
