Severe storms can bring an opportunity for scammers.

Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller says scammers will travel to areas that are dealing with damage after severe weather events. Oftentimes they’ll attempt to persuade storm victims to hire them on the spot for cleanup and repair work. Scam artists will use this urgency many people are facing, hoping that their potential victims don’t take the time to do their due diligence. Miller recommends getting a legal contract in writing before transerfing any funds, as well as request and contact references available, and confirming their registration and bonding with the Iowa Department of Labor.

The City of Perry is doing their part in helping residents as much as they can by offering their resources to help clear debris. Tree brush from the storm can be placed at the curb for pickup. Tree limbs do not have to be cut down, just stacked and left on the curb. Residents can also bring storm debris to the campground parking lot at Pattee Park free of charge. This will help crews quickly clear the streets for those who are unable to haul their debris.