Winter is coming, and with unprecedented high prices for gas and oil, many people across the Alleghenies will be stressed to the max as they try and cover their month-to-month energy bills.

That’s why the seven meetings are being held across the state Tuesday in an effort to develop strategies and share ideas on how to reduce energy consumption and stretch resources. State officials said that small steps – like setting your thermostat and hot water heater back a few degrees – can help save consumers money.

"People are looking at increases this year where they could be paying several hundred dollars more than they can afford,” said Deputy Secretary of Aging Michael Hall. “If you save $40 here, $50 there, $80 there…that all adds up."

Last winter, more Pennsylvanians faced termination of their utilities than ever before. With the high jobless rate, and the increasing number of struggling seniors and families, more people will need help this winter.

WJACTV.com is the place to start for more information.

Click here to visit our “As Mentioned On WJAC-TV” page. There you’ll find links to web sites that provide guidelines for heating assistance and covered expenses. There are also tips on winterizing your home and tips for saving money and conserving energy.

Consumers can also call the Governor’s Stay Warm hot line at 866-550-4355.