PUC urges: call now to get utilities restored

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) on Tuesday released the results of its annual Cold Weather Survey, showing that about 14,364 households will enter the winter season without heat-related utility service compared to 13,762 this time last year. Some 17,745 homes are not using a central-heating system to, according to the 2008 survey. The comparable total number was 16,857 in 2007. The PUC encourages consumers without utility service to learn their rights and obtain information about programs that can help. Consumers with a seriously ill resident in the household or a protection from abuse order may have additional options for service restoration. Call your utility first to make arrangements to pay. If you are unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to help. The PUC can be reached toll-free at 800-692-7380.