The Cold Weather Rule---A Public Service Announcement

"The Cold Weather Rule" is the law restricting the right of utilities to disconnect natural gas and electricity from tenants or owners of property during the period from November 1 to April 1. These rules differ from state to state.

The disconnection of heat during this period can cause destruction of property and loss of life. Minnesota is a state that has a strict cold weather rule. I am not sure of the status of Wisconsin. Many times it is required that customers that are disabled or in a medical emergency status or homes where there is a newborn, that homeowners contact the utility to advise it of their status before they are elegible for protection under the rule.

I am aware of a home in our fair city that due to a burst water pipe that was unattended to caused the complete distruction of the home. In Minnesota each year, there is usually a case of a person that dies that should not have if they had properly notified the utility.

Check with your utility if you have questions regarding the "Cold Weather Rule."