DEFENDERS: Donating to Australia wildfires safely

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The devastating Australian bushfires spreading across the nation for months are showing no signs of slowing down.

And as the nation attempts to battle the crisis, good Samaritans are looking for ways to step in and help.

The Better Business Bureau wants to remind those looking to help to carefully check out charities before making donations. While many agencies are legitimate, some can use natural disasters to solicit money.

The BBB and other consumer groups advise being cautious when giving online to unfamiliar charities, find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups, be cautious of crowdfunding and double-check the organization to make sure it's legitimate.

Websites such as CharityWatch, Charity Navigator, Guide Star, and the Better Business Bureau are good resources to check non-profit organizations.

Organizations with legitimate reputations include the Australian Red Cross, the Salvation Army, Foodbank and World Wildlife Fund Australia.