Consumers can manage and possibly reduce their winter heating costs by taking the following steps:

- Conserve energy. Consumers can control their energy costs by using energy wisely and more efficiently. Proper insulation around doors and windows, buying energy-efficient appliances and installing programmable thermostats are some of the measures consumers can take. For more information, see the Consumer Corner section at www.psc.state.ga.us .

- Enroll in budget billing. Consumers can spread out their natural gas utility payments over a 12-month period by signing up for budget billing through their utility provider or natural gas marketer. However, there may be a periodic true-up during the year or at the end of the 12 months.

- Apply for energy bill assistance. Consumers may qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, as well as other assistance programs. For more information, consumers can call their local Community Action Agency at 1-800- 869-1150 or 404-657-3425.

- Check out marketers plan offerings. For consumers in the Atlanta Gas Light Company delivery area who like the security of knowing the rate they will pay for gas, a fixed rate plan might be appropriate. The natural gas marketers' price list compares the annual cost of an average user that consumes 880 therms of gas if locked in for 12 months at the publised rates. Consumers can visit www.psc.state.ga.us/gas/pricedard.html to obtain the most up-to-date fixed rates.