COLUMBUS— Attorney General Dave Yost is urging Ohioans to watch out for home repair scammers and fake charities after powerful storms caused major damage to homes and businesses in western Ohio earlier this week.

“Already in the early aftermath of these storms, we’ve seen some of the best of humanity on display,” Yost said. “Unfortunately, I expect the coming weeks and months will also bring out some of the worst: scammers hoping to make a quick buck off of those who’ve already lost so much.”

Storm-chasing contractors travel to affected communities to offer their services to homeowners who experience damage, such as downed trees or roof damage. Unscrupulous contractors may ask for a large down payment or tell consumers to sign over their insurance checks, but ultimately they perform shoddy work or no work at all.

Ohioans who suspect unfair sales practices or misuse of charitable resources should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioProtects.org or 800-282-0515.