How to Report Price Gouging During Tropical Storm Beryl

As Tropical Storm Beryl heads our way, it’s important to stay prepared and alert. Unfortunately, some businesses might try to take advantage of the situation by hiking up prices on essential items. Price gouging is when the cost of necessary goods and services gets jacked up to unreasonable levels during emergencies. Here’s what you need to know about spotting and reporting price gouging during the storm.

What is Price Gouging?

Price gouging usually involves steep price hikes on essentials like:

• Gasoline
• Food and water
• Batteries and flashlights
• Generators
• Medical supplies
• Lodging and shelter

How to Spot Price Gouging

• Check Prices: Compare current prices to what they were before the storm was announced.
• Keep Records: Hold on to receipts or take photos of prices to show any sudden increases.
• Stay Connected: Talk to your neighbors and local community groups to share information on any suspicious price hikes.

How to Report Price Gouging

1. Gather Evidence

• Take photos of price tags, receipts, or ads showing inflated prices.
• Note the store location, date, and time when you saw the price hike.

1. Reach Out to Authorities

• Texas Attorney General’s Office: File a complaint online or call their hotline.
  • File a Complaint Online
  • Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-621-0508

1. Local Authorities

• Report the incident to your city or county officials. They might have extra resources to help.

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

• If the issue is widespread, you can also file a complaint with the FTC.
  • FTC Complaint Form

Extra Tips

• Stay Informed: Keep up with updates from trusted sources like local news, weather services, and government channels.
• Shop Smart: Buy only what you need to help ensure there’s enough for everyone.
• Support Your Community: Look out for your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have limited mobility, by sharing resources and information.

No one should have to deal with unfair price hikes during an emergency. By keeping an eye out for price gouging and knowing how to report it, we can help protect our community and make sure everyone has access to what they need during Tropical Storm Beryl. Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s take care of each other.

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Posted By: HTXNEWS

Social Media Scour Reporter