A Penny For Your Thoughts

A sure sign of winter preparation is the placement of slender stakes around the parking lots of county facilities. The four-foot stakes warn snow plow drivers of curbs and other possible impediments to smooth removal of snow. The stakes appeared in Mason District Park this weekend, and I anticipate that the Mason District Governmental Center will be next.

Even though the weather of late has been a bit balmier than normal for Thanksgiving week, the utility companies also are preparing for what is forecast to be a cold and snowy winter season. Tucked into residential electric and gas bills are helpful hints for energy efficiency and a more comfortable winter at home. Caulking and weatherstripping are easy do-at-home tasks that can help keep energy costs down. Close the damper when the fireplace is not in use. It's amazing how much household heat can get sucked up an open chimney.

Both the gas and electric utilities recommend changing your furnace filter frequently to improve energy efficiency. Set your thermostat at a comfortable setting between 65 and 70 degrees. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that you can save as much as three percent on your heating bill for every one degree reduction on your thermostat in just 24 hours. Dress warmly in your home and you can be comfortable with a lower thermostat setting. If you have an outdoor unit (heat pump), be sure to remove leaves and debris from around it so that the unit will run efficiently. Blocked vents can cause the unit to run harder and raise your energy bill. Run your washer, dryer, and dishwasher with full loads.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with paying their energy bills, you should contact the Virginia Energy Assistance Program Human Services Information and Referral Line at 1/800/230-6977. The Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) helps families who do not qualify for, or who have exhausted, government energy assistance. For more information, or to apply for WAFF funds, which are available January 1 through May 31, call The Salvation Army at 1/888-318-WAFF (9233).

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Thanksgiving is a uniquely American tradition, bringing families and friends together to reflect on the bounty we enjoy in this country. Unfortunately, there still are too many people who do not have enough to eat each day. As you celebrate Thanks-giving, please remember to make a donation to a local food pantry. Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA), 7200 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003, and the Capital Area Food Bank, 645 Taylor Street, N.E., Washington, D. C. 20017, are just two of many worthy groups that help families in our region. Happy Thanksgiving!

Supervisor Penny Gross may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov