If you're pulling out more credit cards to pay for things this summer, you have a lot of company.

More and more people are entering murky water when it comes to paying off debt.

Here's important information to help head off the "sharks" - those people who come around offering to help you when you're swimming in debt, only to take even more of your money.

Part of the concern is that more people are turning to credit cards and high-risk consumer loans because they can no longer borrow money against their homes.

New reports show the spike in consumer borrowing is more than two times higher than predicted.

According to the Federal Reserve, consumer credit jumped more than $ 13 billion in June. It was up nearly $16 billion in May,

While some say that's a sign of consumer strength, others fear the boost in borrowing signals more fallout from the sub-prime mortgage debacle.

Local attorneys are swamped with victims of foreclosure rescue scams. Local credit counselors report a spike in consumers getting deeper in debt with payday loans or by paying their mortgages with credit cards.

But if you're using more plastic more often because you don't have the cash, debt counselors say stop now and pick up the phone.

Call your creditors. If you're having problem making mortgage payments, call your mortgage company.

Explain the situation. They may ask for a signed letter, often called a hardship letter. Mortgage companies will likely require a detailed breakdown of your income and expenses.

Ask if you can work out a payment plan that you know you can stick to. In some cases, mortgage companies will modify your loan.

If you don't feel confident negotiating with your creditors yourself, contact a non-profit counseling service that can help you examine your options before the situation gets worse. The worst thing you can do is ignore the situation and hope it will go away. The next worst thing you can do is seek help from what turns out to be nothing more than a shark.

Right now the market is flooded with scammers and deceptive businesses claiming to help you consolidate your debt or avoid foreclosure, so stay away from Internet offers and neighborhood fliers.

Here are two legitimate local resources that can help you.

One is called Solid Ground, formerly the Fremont Public Association. This non-profit organization offers extensive services and they can help deal with mortgage difficulties and predatory lending.

Consumer Counseling Northwest is a long-time, certified, non-profit credit counseling organization that can intervene with your creditors and help get your debt under control the right way.

For More Information

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