Potential disaster is imminent even after the devastating Waldo Canyon Fire has been 100 percent contained. Your BBB is hearing about companies coming into the vicinity and harassing homeowners in the affected area. They are swooping in using fear tactics to convince homeowners that they have no other choice but to use their businesses’ services or products.

They can be annoying but they also can cost you money --- and, worse yet, do damage to your home and/or lot and foundation that is left. We recently heard about a company charging the homeowner thousands of dollars to mitigate the lot to prevent flooding. This resulted in the water being diverted through the middle of the lot, the area the homeowner was trying to protect.

What’s the answer? Start by talking to experts to determine whether you need the service, such as a public adjuster. Then check out LOCAL companies with your Better Business Bureau. Know how long they have been in business, how many and what kind of complaints are on file, what is their rating and do they need a license? Then get three bids from the local companies.

Don’t hurry. Do your research --- and remember LOCAL companies need our support more than ever. The fire has seriously impacted them more than we realize. We want them to stay in business. It helps all of us.