Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Thursday, January 30, 2014
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Senator Dan Coats (R-Ind.) joined other Hoosier lawmakers in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx urging the secretary to extend the current emergency exemption for motor carriers should the ongoing propane shortage across the Midwest continue.
Roughly 500,000 Hoosiers, or nine percent of households, use propane as a heating source. The fuel also is used in basic agricultural and manufacturing operations.
"For Hoosier households that rely on propane, this is a serious time of year," Coats said. "Historically low temperatures in December and January have aggravated the current shortage. Pipeline and distribution disruptions have further limited delivery to the Midwest. I urge all Hoosiers to take this situation seriously and take adequate precautions to ensure the safety of their families."
In response to the current shortage, many companies are limiting home deliveries in order to ensure service for all customers. To help alleviate the situation, Hoosiers can:
Turn down the thermostat, wear layers at home and be mindful of time while using hot water and cooking.
Alert communities, churches and service organizations to check on loved ones, particularly senior citizens in rural areas.
Use Indiana's 2-1-1 emergency number as a resource for out of heat Hoosiers who need relief in their community.
Weatherproof homes and if possible use alternative sources of heat.
Hoosiers concerned about price gouging can contact the Indiana Attorney General's office hotline toll-free at 1-800-241-9753 or at www.IndianaConsumer.com.
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