After the hurricane: answers now and in the future.(Have You Heard?)

As we go to press, the flood waters from Hurricane Katrina are being pumped out of New Orleans and, for tens of thousands of people, shock is giving way to a new reality. Part of that reality is the enormous challenge they face in reconstructing their lives as well as their homes. Our hearts go out to the victims, and Consumers Union joins the many groups and individuals making every effort to help.

Beyond the immediate needs of the hurricane victims, and indeed, victims of any disaster who have seen their physical and financial foundations destroyed, issues abound. How can they steer clear of shoddy home construction as they rebuild? How can they protect themselves from identity theft when re-establishing financial records? How can they avoid buying a flood-damaged used vehicle? What do they need to know to avoid the inevitable swindles?

CONSUMER REPORTS iS making our own expertise on such topics available for Katrina's victims through local media and service organizations and free on our Web site, at www.ConsumerReports.org. (Click on Hurricane Recovery: Consumer Guidance on the home page.) We're also providing a free forum on the site where our experts will respond to selected questions. (Click on Discussions and look for ...