Recognizing the red flags of a utility scam during Texas’ freezing weather

(Special to The Dallas Examiner) – Weather forecasts over the next week predict near or below-freezing temperatures across most of Texas, introducing the first cold snap of the winter season. As residents prepare their homes and businesses, chances are high that scammers will take advantage of the situation by impersonating utility companies and using the threat of disconnection to entice immediate payment.Be wary of texts, phone calls or emails from the utility company that services your area, claiming that they will shut your heat off immediately unless payment is made. The Public Utility Commission of Texas stated that an electric utility company cannot disconnect a customer anywhere in its service area on a day when: Related Stories The previous day’s highest temperature did not exceed 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The nearest National Weather Service reports temperatures are predicted to remain at or below that level for the next 24 hours.For residents who rely on a gas heating system rather than electric, disconnection of a delinquent residential customer is prohibited under these same conditions, except where there is a known dangerous condition which stems from the gas being supplied to the residence.& If contacted by a utility company demanding immediate payment during...