INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO):  Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller is urging all Hoosiers to try and cut back on the amount of propane used to heat their homes as weather conditions and supply shortages continue to get worse in the Midwest.

Zoeller says a number of market factors have led to the current crisis ranging from logistical disruptions to weather conditions driving demand.

 “Consumers have likely noticed the spike in propane prices as the costs of heating their homes have jumped significantly,” Zoeller said. “To help protect consumers from being illegally gouged, our office is closely monitoring the price of propane sold at all levels of the market. Unfortunately, there is no easy solution to the current situation so we urge consumers to take adequate precautions now to make sure their homes stay warm during these frigid temperatures.”

Zoeller offers the following tips to help conserve propane:

·         Turn down your thermostat and monitor your household’s use of hot water and time cooking using the stove or oven;

·         Closely monitor your propane tank’s levels as delayed home deliveries may result from the overall supply shortage;

·         If possible, use alternative sources of heat to supplement your household’s use of propane; and

·         If you are have no heat, contact the state’s 2-1-1 hotline to connect with local organizations that are providing assistance.

Indiana Governor Mike Pence recently ordered restrictions on propane transport to be eased through the end of January to help increase the state’s supply.