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November 2007 – Winter Driving Tips, Veterans Day, Unlicensed Activity After a Disaster
Each month, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) identifies general themes which coincide with the scope and vision of the Department's boards and bureaus. You can view a full listing of events that the DCA will be attending, many of which correspond with the theme of the month, on our Outreach Events Calendar.
Winter Driving Tips
The winter months can be hazardous to your cars health. Slick roads and below-freezing temperatures combined with Californians' propensity to travel long distances during the holidays, can lead to some dangerous situations. The Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Automotive Repair (DCA/BAR) advises motorists that the best way to reduce the likelihood of accidents or breakdowns is to properly winterize their vehicles.
The Bureau of Automotive Repair Web site hosts a plethora of great information for motorists getting ready to brave the winter roads. When a consumer is planning on traveling to the mountains, perhaps to enjoy some winter sports, it is always a good idea to bring a winter safety kit. A winter safety kit should include: jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable food, a battery powered radio, an ice scraper, and some road flares. Click here to see more tips on how to keep your car running, and your family safe during the holidays.
During the winter season, it is not uncommon to encounter chain control areas in the mountain regions of California. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has some useful consumer information on the various chain requirements you may run into. For a listing of chain requirements, and a definition of the different snow tires and chains available, click this link. This illustration shows the proper placement for chains on cars, trucks, and trailers. Click here for a full list of frequently asked questions on tire traction devices and driving in the snow.
Caltrans is also the state agency responsible for snow removal and road closures in California. To check for possible mountain pass closures, you should call the Caltrans Highway Information Network at (800) 427.7623. To view Caltrans official policy on snow and ice removal from state highways, click here.
The California Department of Water Resources monitors snow fall and weather conditions throughout the state, updating their Web site with sensor information. Check it regularly throughout the season for real-time snow conditions.
Veterans Day (November 11)
Veterans Day is an American federal and state holiday which honors the men and women of our military. It is celebrated on the same day as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day in other parts of the world. November 11 This the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice which ended World War I.
Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served (not only those who died) have sacrificed and done their duty.
California is the home to more veterans (over 2.3 million) than any other state. The California Department of Veterans Affairs is a great resource for veteran services, benefits, and state memorials. The California Veterans Board serves as an advocate for veterans' affairs, identifying needs, and working to ensure and enhance the rights and benefits of California veterans and their families.
The Employment Development Department of California (EDD) has made a strong commitment to the men and women who have served in our armed forces. Veterans receive priority status in job and training referrals, along with other employment-related services. The EDD staff specializes in matching employer with veterans, and easing the transition from the military to civilian work. Click here for more information on the EDD's veteran programs and services.
The DCA extends its gratitude to all the valiant men and women who have served in our armed forces.
Unlicensed Activity After a Disaster
The Department of Consumer Affairs' initiative to crack down on unlicensed activity continues this month. As the rebuilding process begins after the Southern California Fire's, unlicensed activity will be a major concern. It is a felony to contract without a license in a declared disaster area. To learn more about rebuilding after a disaster, go to the State of California's newest Web site at www.rebuildyourlife.ca.gov.
Consumers who hire unlicensed professionals may think they're getting a good deal. In fact, hiring unlicensed professionals can lead to serious problems. Unlicensed professionals operate outside the law, and do not follow acceptable standards or abide by a code of conduct. They also hurt the economy and take business away from legitimate professionals who know and follow the rules. They offer little or no recourse for dissatisfied customers. Hire only individuals or businesses licensed by the DCA. Do no allow unlicensed people into your home. Ask to see an individual's license.
The Contractors State License Board warns that unscrupulous, unlicensed contractors often prey on victims of natural disasters. To view the Contractors State License Board's "After a Disaster Don't Get Scammed" pamphlet, click here.
DCA would like to remind consumers to always check the licenses of the professionals they are considering to hire. You can do so at our License Lookup Page. You can also see what types of businesses and professions we license.
To learn more about how DCA has stepped up its enforcement efforts to protect consumers against unlicensed individuals and businesses, visit our press room.
