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Wildfires have displaced hundreds of thousands of people in southern California. The �鶹��ý Trade Commission offers two reminders about weather emergencies and other sudden events:

• Having financial documents up-to-date, in one place, and portable can make a big difference at a tense time.
• The best way to provide immediate assistance is to donate money directly to established relief organizations with the experience and means to deliver aid.

“Financial Readiness: As Critical as Fully Charged Batteries” offers tips for financial readiness in case of an emergency, including a list to help people prepare.

“Helping Victims of the California Wildfires: Your Guide to Giving Wisely” offers tips on donating wisely to make sure money goes directly to victims and not to scam artists.

The �鶹��ý Trade Commission works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them. For free information on a variety of consumer topics, click http://ftc.gov/bcp/consumer.shtm.