Severe winter storm leaves lasting effects

Last week’s severe winter storm took its toll on Bosque County residents as the area remained under a sheet of snow and ice with below freezing temperatures for days on end.

Communities across the county saw extended power outages, water shortages and unreliable cell phone service.

One thing that remained constant, however, was the willingness of neighbors to help neighbors.

“My dad was running around town delivering food and checking on people,” Valley Mills resident Krystal Pruett-Harper said of her dad, Clifton resident Bill Pruett. “He has a heart of gold and I know this community is a better place because of him.”

Many local churches and organizations throughout Bosque County opened their doors to provide shelter and warming stations for those without power, and the Bosque County Sheriff’s Office, along with many county officials, worked tirelessly to deliver cases of water to affected areas.

The CVFD called this trickle-down generosity.

“This community is a family circle, and we see and feel it every day!” said a representative for the CVFD on their Facebook page. “As this community thaws and repairs and rebuilds, we want to warm you with a big thank you!”

Bosque County was added to the state’s list of counties eligible for Individual Assistance Feb. 22. Individuals and businesses who sustained property damage because of last week’s winter storm should report it as soon as possible so appropriate funds from FEMA can be allocated.

FEMA aid is meant to help with items like temporary rentals or home repair assistance. FEMA provides financial assistance to eligible applicants who are uninsured or underinsured. Those applying for benefits need to contact their insurance company first as the insurance claim information is needed to determine eligibility for federal assistance.

To apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, go to www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585.

Those making arrangements for repairs should use caution when choosing repair services.

FEMA released a statement on Feb. 22 saying, “Disasters often bring communities together but con artists, identity thieves and other criminals may target survivors. The most common types of post-disaster fraud include phony housing inspectors, fraudulent building contractors, bogus pleas for disaster donations, fake offers of municipal or federal aid and charging for free services.”

FEMA also offered tips to protect against fraudulent services.

-Don’t wire money or pay with reloadable debit or gift cards. There is not legitimate reason to request those forms of payment.

-Don’t offer personal financial information over the phone. Know who you are dealing with and always ask for identification.

-Take your time to decide. In Texas, contractors are required to provide a Notice of Cancellation which gives you the right to change your mind within three business days if the transaction occurs in your home. Even if the transaction does not occur in your home, you can still request three days; there is no legitimate reason to refuse this request.

-Get the agreement in writing. Read the contract carefully, and if you don’t understand every word, take it to an expert. Never sign a contract with blank spaces to be filled in.

-Make sure the contract details all work to be performed, the costs, a projected completion date and how to negotiate changes and settle disputes.

-Do your research. Scam artists will usually come to you to offer their services, either at your door, on the phone or through email.

-Demand satisfaction. Don’t sign completion papers or make final payment until the work is done correctly.

Those seeking repairs are asked to report their concerns as they may arise. Potential fraud should always be reported to local law enforcement agencies. The Texas Office of the Attorney General can also be notified at 800-621-0508, and the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 is available 24 hours a day.