Utility help available as temperatures expected to soar

WOOD COUNTY – With sweltering temperatures heading our way, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission wants to make sure everyone knows about important protections for utility customers.

Wednesday's heat advisory for much of Wisconsin – including here in Wood County, where the heat index could soar to 104 degrees – is a reminder that state law includes special safeguards when the mercury rises. If you're struggling with utility bills during extreme heat, you may have more options than you realize.

Here's what you need to know: Utilities cannot shut off your electricity when the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, heat warning or heat emergency. And if your power was already disconnected for unpaid bills, the utility must make reasonable efforts to reconnect you when extreme heat creates a health risk.

You might need to provide documentation from a doctor or get a notice from public health, social services or law enforcement explaining the medical emergency. But utilities are encouraged to err on the side of keeping people safe.

The catch? Once the heat advisory ends, utilities can disconnect service again if you haven't worked out a payment plan. So it's important to use this time to contact your utility company about payment arrangements.

While the mercury could top the century mark Wednesday, temperatures are expected to cool off again Thursday, with thunderstorms and showers lowering the temps to the 80s, according to the National Weather Service.

The weekend looks much more comfortable with partly cloudy skies and temperatures in the mid-80s. Sunday and Monday will warm back up near 90 degrees, with a slight chance of storms returning Tuesday.

The PSC suggests these simple steps to keep your home cooler and your electric bill manageable:

• Close blinds and curtains during the day to block out sun
• Unplug electronics like TVs, computers and phone chargers when you're not using them
• Change your air conditioner filter and clean around outdoor units
• Run your dishwasher and washing machine early in the morning or late at night
• Turn off lights when you leave a room
• Consider using fans to circulate air and make it feel cooler

If you have questions about utility disconnections during hot weather, call the PSC Consumer Affairs Bureau at (800) 225-7729. The staff can explain your rights and help you understand your options.

You can also find more information about utility customer protections on the PSC website.