Be cautious responding to any phone call or emails from Area Code 809, 284, or 876. There have been many scams connected with these area codes.

Here’s how it works. You get an email or call from one of these area codes saying sorry I missed your call. Or they might tell you that some relative of yours is sick or in trouble. No matter what the call or email it is designed to get you to return a call connected to an “international” phone number the results of which you will be billed an exuberant rate and billed as such. (has been reported to be as much as $25 per minute)

Unfortunately there’s not much you can do because these are legal charges for the country that they are operating in. Most of them are in the Dominican Republic, Canada or a Caribbean country. They don’t have to comply with United states Laws regarding such calls. The bad thing about these calls is that you probably will not realize the costs of these calls until you get your telephone bill.

Never return calls to any unfamiliar number or person. You can call the directory assistance operator to get information on any suspicious call you may have recieved. They can check the area code location of the call.

Carefully read your telephone bill when you receive it. Check all charges and any fees that might be connected with any charges listed on your bill.

If you feel you have been scamed contact the carrier the charge was originated from. The name and phone number should be printed on your bill. Often the charge can be resolved by simple phone call. If the carrier refuses to resolve the charges then call your carrier or ATT&T. ATT&T will work with your carrier to try to cancel any fraudulent charge and help remove it from your bill.

ATT&T has been working hard to eliminate these scams for some time now. You may also file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission and give them the information to look into your situation.

Before getting into the home emergency Supply Kit, I have some recommendations about Emergencies.
Every family member should know what to do in all types of emergencies. Have practice drills with all members. Have a meeting place to gather so that you know all members are safe if an emergency should occur. Many have lost their lives looking for family members or pets going back into a burning or destroyed home.

All family members should know where all utilitiy cut-offs are located and how to shut them off. If a tool is needed, know where it is kept and how to use it.

The U. S. Department of Homeland security has prepared an emergency suply list. Here are some of their suggestions:

* Water, at least one gallon for each person for at least three days.
* Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.
* Battery-powered or hand-cranked radio and a NOAA Weather radio with extra batteries.
* Flashlight with extra batteries.
* First Aid Kit and instructions on first aid.
* Whistle or some other signaling device.
* Dust masks and plastic sheeting with duct tape to form a shelter-in-place”.
* Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties for personal sanitation.
* Can opener for canned goods.
* Local maps.
* Prescription medications and glasses.
* Infant formula and diapers.
* Pet food and water for them.
* Have important papers in a water proof container, ie: Insurance papers, Bank information, any
account information.
* Cash, travelers checks and change.
* Sleepings bags for each person. Extra blankets and a change of clothes for everyone.
* Household bleach,(with eye dropper) Mix nine parts of water to one part of bleach.
* fire extinguisher
* Matches in a water proof container or lighters.
* Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.
* Mess kits, paper cups, plates, towels and utensils.
* Paper and pencils.
* Books games, puzzles, or other activity items.
Have your family review and discuss what’s in your kit and what else they feel should be included. There may be some unique items needed for your family.