Beware of scammers posing as utility workers

Scammers have been posing as public utility workers to get into people's homes in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy, authorities warned consumers.

State Sen. Lee Zeldin (R,C-Shirley), along with other state and local officials, have been reiterating those warnings in recent days.

Zeldin, head of the Senate Consumer Protection Committee, said he will also crack down on any price gougers who exploit the shortage in gas and other necessities.

He advised homeowners making repairs after Sandy to carefully pick their contractors by checking out their references and licenses and getting written estimates.

"I understand that everyone wants things fixed and back to normal as quickly as possible, but exercising common sense is essential," Zeldin said.

The Suffolk consumer affairs office may be reached at is hotline 631-853-4600 or consumer.affairs@suffolkcountyny.gov. Nassau's office is at 516-571-2600 or nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/oca.