As people are working to clean up their property following the ice storm, many are seeking assistance from contractors. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of people, and some people have been scammed, the Michigan State Police said in a Saturday news release.

MSP shared the following tips to help protect homeowners.

— Always use licensed and insured contractors.

— Be aware of contractors who say they are affiliated with government agencies.

— Don’t sign anything you don’t understand or contracts with blank spaces.

— Don’t pre-pay for services.

Visit Michigan.gov/icestorm to find licensed contractors, get updates, report damage, and more.