When filling up your vehicle or heating your home becomes a major life decision, you know you're in trouble. Many Americans are finding themselves in that position these days, and there seems to be no end in sight. Just when you thought it was beginning to become safe to go to the gas station, another entity decides they want a bigger slice of your next paycheck.

Welcome to utility hell.

Consumers who heat their homes with gas are about to find out the lasting effects of the Gulf War, hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the general greed of their local energy companies, when the price of natural gas skyrockets this winter.

In Philadelphia, PA., Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) has proposed a rate hike of 19.4 percent to the Public Utilities Commission. The proposed hike would be in addition to a 4.9 percent increase already set forth in the region on September 1st of this year. Rate hikes like these are sure to rock blue collar cities like Philadelphia, and similar cities throughout the country.

It is estimated that the price of natural gas will increase anywhere from 30 to 70 percent nationally this winter. The U. S. Energy Department urges consumers to be as frugal as possible in their endeavors this winter. For many consumers, that's not a good enough answer.

"It's gotten to the point where I have to choose between filling up my car, or buying a brand name can of spaghetti sauce. I'm already buying generic food and clipping coupons. There's nothing else to cut, ? said a North Philadelphia resident.

To make matters worse in Philadelphia, PECO Energy is proposing a rate hike in electricity as well. So, by Thanksgiving, my tentative plans are to walk five miles to my mother's house for a nice, candle-lit holiday dinner of turkey sandwiches and cranberry juice. And, no, it won't be Ocean Spray. We're not made of money, you know.

What Can You Do?

Contact your local utility companies to sign up for any Energy Assistance Programs they may offer.

If you are comfortable with alternative heating sources (electric heaters, oil heaters, or kerosene heaters), purchase them now before the price goes up.

Set your thermostats higher (past 70) during daytime hours, and turn them off at night when you are asleep. Set your alarms for one hour earlier than you usually get up and turn your heat on to take the chill off in the morning.

Shower at night before bed, and spot wash in the morning.

Most importantly, be sure to check on any elderly family members and neighbors close by. Do so on, at least, a weekly basis. Most are on fixed incomes and will not be able to afford the higher rates. Escort them to the local energy companies to ensure they sign up for Energy Assistance Programs designed to help the elderly. If you cannot escort them, aid them in finding someone who can.

And, if I may suggest; it would be nice if you could invite an elderly person nearby to holiday dinner. They don't eat much. I guarantee you that your house will feel that much warmer if you do.