The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) office in Willacy County is reminding affected residents to apply for aid if they suffered damage and losses due to Hurricane Dolly.

"September 30th is the final deadline to apply for federal and state individual disaster assistance," said Carmen Rodriguez, a FEMA field public information officer. "Rather than wonder, homeowners and renters are urged to make the call ASAP."

The main Willacy County office is still located in the American Legion Hall on W. Hidalgo Ave., in Raymondville.

Rodriguez still encourages people to come into the office to apply in person or call 800- 621-3362.

The Texas Attorney General's office and FEMA are concerned about fraud and scams from contractors who may take advantage of a homeowner.

The agency, located in Austin is communicating the following tips to avoid getting scammed.

- Use local contractors first. - Ask for references and check them.

- Ask for a written estimate. - Ask for proof of insurance.

- Get a written contract.

- Ask for guarantees in writing (if separate from the contract).

- Get a copy of the final signed contract.

- Do not sign off before the job is finished.

- Never pay cash up front.

Instances of contractor fraud should be reported to the attorney general's office at 800-621-0508. E-mail comments on this story to; robert@raymondvillechroniclenews.com