Press Release

HARRISBURG – As part of the 'Prepare Now for Higher Winter Gas Prices' campaign, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) and the Council for Utility Choice are encouraging all Pennsylvanians to heat their homes safely this winter.

'As the temperatures get colder and with natural gas prices expected to be higher this year, some people may seek alternate and dangerous ways to heat their homes,' said PUC Commissioner Kim Pizzingrilli. 'We encourage you to keep some important safety tips in mind.'

The Council, drawing information from a variety of sources including the American Red Cross, the U.S. Fire Administration and the American Gas Association, offers the following recommendations:

- Have a professional check your furnace regularly;
- Clean and inspect your fireplace;
- Clean and inspect your wood stoves;
- Use space heaters wisely;
- Install carbon monoxide detectors;
- Install smoke detectors;
- Keep fire extinguishers on hand; and
- Don’t overload electrical outlets.

To help consumers, the PUC and the Council have launched a campaign to urge consumers to 'Prepare Now for High Winter Gas Prices.' Consumers can visit www.utilitychoice.org by clicking on the 'Prepare Now' flame to receive additional safety information about how to manage the cost of natural gas this winter, conserving heat and energy, budget billing, and low-income assistance programs. Or call 1-888-PUC-FACT.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation services for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition.

The Council for Utility Choice is a non-profit corporation working in conjunction with the PUC. The Council is comprised of individuals from the following entities: the PUC; the Pennsylvania Rural Development Council; the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs; the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African-American Affairs; the Office of Consumer Advocate; state utility associations; public educators; and community-based organizations.

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