As the LA wildfire rages on, damage assessment teams counted 78 homes, two commercial buildings and dozens of outbuildings destroyed by the flames. While the fire isn't expected to be fully contained by Sept. 15, donations have already started pouring in.

"In the face of any disaster, Americans will immediately step forward with donations to aid the victims and their families,” said Art Taylor, CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. “Unfortunately, after any major disaster, scammers will try to take advantage of the generosity of the public; that’s why it’s important to take your time and do your research before donating to a charity relief effort." 

Before you donate, follow these tips:

• Before making a contribution, go to www.bbb.org/charity to obtain detailed evaluative reports on many of the relief organizations providing assistance.
• Think twice about donating to any charity that is inexperienced in carrying out relief efforts but is suddenly soliciting for aid for Southern California. Although well intentioned, such organizations may not have the ability to quickly deliver aid to those in need.
• Be wary of appeals that are long on emotion, but short on describing what the charity will do to address the needs of victims and their families.
• Be cautious about giving out your credit card number or other personal information to a phone solicitor or in response to an e-mail appeal. Find out more about the organization and, if interested, go directly to the group’s Web site on your own.