With much of Pennsylvania experiencing severe winter weather, the Public Utility Commission (PUC) reminds the 13,859 consumers without use of a central heating system or using a potentially unsafe heating source in their homes to call about programs to help restore natural gas or electric service.

“Despite predictions of an early spring, icy winter weather blankets much of Pennsylvania. We are reminded that some are weathering the storm without heat-related utility service,” said Commission Chairman James H. Cawley. “While it is good news that 29 percent more of our neighbors have access to a central heating system than in December, 13,859 consumers still do not have utility service. Resources are available to help consumers restore and maintain service. I urge consumers without service to take action today.”

The PUC encourages consumers without utility service to know their rights and responsibilities. Consumers should obtain information about programs available to help them restore and maintain utility service. Consumers with a seriously ill resident in the household or a protection from abuse order may have additional options for service restoration.

As of Feb. 1, 2011, the total number of homes not using a central heating system was 13,859, a 29 percent reduction from the Dec. 15, 2010, total of 19,657. The information is a follow up to the annual Cold Weather Survey results.

A chart of the individual company statistics is available online. In December 2010, about 17,294 households were without heat-related utility service, with an additional 2,363 residences using potentially unsafe heating sources. The total number not using a central heating system in December 2009 was 21,029 and 14,283 in February 2010.

Consumers should call their utility first to make arrangements to pay their bill. If they are unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to provide assistance. The PUC can be reached toll-free at 1-800-692-7380.

This winter marks the PUC’s eighth “Prepare Now” campaign where the message is simple: “Prepare Now” for higher energy costs this winter. Learn about changes in the law related to utility terminations and reconnections and know your rights. Save money by learning how to conserve energy. Heat your home safely. Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service. Visit www.puc.state.pa.us, and click on “Prepare Now” or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.

In response to a Nov. 8, 2010, letter from the PUC Commissioners urging electric and natural gas utilities to take extra steps to help consumers “Prepare Now” for the higher costs of winter heating, utilities have responded with suggested actions they plan to implement. The utilities were asked to inform the PUC of any plans they will be putting into place. The PUC today also released those responses. The companies’ responses can be found on the PUC website.