Markets Wired

Wildfires have displaced hundreds of thousands of people in southern California. The Federal 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 Federal 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.