Conservation may ease winter energy expenses
Atmos Energy Corporation is urging customers in its 12-state service territory to take action now to conserve energy and reduce the impact of rising natural gas prices predicted this winter.
The federal Energy Information Administration's (EIA) latest forecast predicts higher winter heating expenses. Households heating primarily with natural gas are expected to spend about $350 (48 percent) more this winter in fuel expenditures.
Customers are urged to use this time before cold weather hits to add weather stripping, insulation, and caulking to eliminate leaks and conserve energy use.
Other actions customers can take include:
— Lower thermostats to reduce the amount of natural gas used. Set thermostats between 65 and 70 degrees during the winter and at 58 degrees when away from the house for more than a few hours. While sleeping, add an extra blanket for warmth.
— Install an automatic setback or programmable thermostats to adjust the temperature automatically without sacrificing comfort.
— Clean cobwebs, dust, or other debris from space heaters before using for the first time. Remove dust and lint from furnace vents, registers, and baseboard heaters.
— Make sure duct work is properly insulated and sealed. Unsealed ducts in attics and crawl spaces lose air. Non-insulated ducts lose heat, wasting energy and money.
— Keep blinds or draperies opened on sunny days to let in the sun's warmth. This is especially important on any windows or glass doors receiving direct sunlight.
Suspect arrested
for marijuana
At 9:15 p.m. Oct. 10, Marion Police Officer James Parmley responded to a complaint of under-age drinking occurring in the 400 block of South Third Street, Marion.
When Officer Parmley arrived, he was let in the back door of the building and could smell the odor of burnt marijuana. The owner of the property divulged to Parmley who had possession of marijuana. The suspect was arrested for possession of marijuana.
FFA to host
tailgate supper
Marion/Florence FFA Chapter will host a tailgate supper from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday before the Marion-Hillsboro football game at Warrior Stadium.
