Better Business Bureau, a Nebraska VOAD partner, and AARP will host a special program on disaster preparedness and the kinds of scams that target the survivors of a disaster in three locations May 15 and 16.
The program, “Weathering A Storm: Disaster Prevention & Recovery,” will inform residents about how to prepare for and recover from natural disasters like tornadoes, floods, fires, severe hail and snow storms. The speakers will discuss emergency preparedness for older adults and how to avoid scams in the aftermath of disasters. The program will take place in three locations:
• Grand Island: The event will be held May 15 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Bosselman Enterprises, 107 S. Locust St., Suite A. There is no cost to attend but space is limited. Registration is required by May 10 at aarp.cvent.com/Disasters_GI515 or call 1-877-926-8300 toll free. Refreshments are included.
• Omaha: The event will be held May 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Ralston Arena, 7300 Q St. There is no cost to attend but space is limited. Registration is required by May 10 at aarp.cvent.com/Disasters_Omaha515 or call 1-877-926-8300 toll free. Refreshments are included.
• Lincoln: The event will be held May 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Cornhusker Bank, 8310 O St. There is no cost to attend but space is limited. Registration is required by May 10 at aarp.cvent.com/Disasters_Lincoln516 or call 1-877-926-8300 toll free. Refreshments are included.
Dr. Renea Gernant, an assistant professor at Bellevue University and an expert on older adults and vulnerable adults in disaster, will discuss measures people should take before a natural disaster strikes.
“Natural disasters are a fact of life, and preparation is everyone’s best defense,” said Devorah Lanner, communications director for AARP Nebraska. “During the program, Dr. Gernant will explain how people can prepare for an emergency to reduce the danger and distress they and their loved ones will face.”
BBB presenters Margo Riekes and Jeff Niebaum will cover disaster-related scams involving traveling contractors, insurance claims hazards, phony charities and more. Each attendee will receive BBB’s “ReBUILD with TRUST” publication on disaster fraud and scams at no cost.
“As residents begin the difficult task of rebuilding in the wake of natural disasters, they face new perils – scams and fraud,” said BBB President Jim Hegarty. “Attendees will learn how to recognize a disaster scam and take steps to protect themselves from fraudsters who pose as law enforcement, insurance adjusters or even representatives from charities.”
Questions about the program can be directed to Margo Riekes, 402-898-8526, mriekes@bbbinc.org.
More details at: http://www.flood.unl.edu