SPOKANE, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Spokane wildfire victims need help. State officials say scammers may be counting on it.

Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is urging donors to do their homework before giving to wildfire relief efforts.

The AG’s Office says people should verify charities are registered with the state, be skeptical of high-pressure donation requests and watch for fake organizations posing as legitimate charities.

Officials are also warning people to be cautious with crowdfunding campaigns, where organizers control how donated money is distributed.

“The destruction in Spokane is heartbreaking, and generous people across our state want to help,” Brown said in a statement. “It’s important to give safely to ensure your hard-earned money is helping those in need.”

For those looking to help, the City of Spokane is accepting donations through its H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund.

The message from the state: be generous, but make sure your money is going where you intend.