Beware of Jasper wildfire donation scams

With the wildfires in Jasper, the Better Business Bureau is concerned about businesses, consumers and residents. As many Albertans seek to help those in need, BBB offers the following advice and resources:  

1. Verify Charities and Crowdfunding Campaigns:  

• Before donating, ensure the organization is reputable. Use BBB’s Charity Review to check for legitimate and trustworthy charities.   

2. Beware of Scams: 

• Avoid unsolicited donation appeals, especially via email or social media. Scammers often exploit disasters to take advantage of compassionate individuals.   

3. Donate Directly:  

• Whenever possible, donate directly to established charities rather than through intermediaries to ensure your donation reaches those in need.  

4. Seek Alternate Travel Plans:  

• If your travel plans are affected by the wildfires, contact your airline or travel provider immediately. Many companies offer waivers or flexible re-booking policies.