2026 - 2027 Winter Ready Program

Helping Pittsburgh stay warm, safe and prepared all winter long.

Pittsburgh winters can be unpredictable, but a little preparation can make a big difference!

WISH 99.7 is proud to partner with Peoples Natural Gas to bring you Winter Ready, a special seasonal program designed to help you and your family stay safe, comfortable and prepared for whatever winter brings.

From November 2 through March 28, we'll share timely tips on winter preparedness, natural gas safety, home heating efficiency and resources that may help with winter energy costs.

Whether you're getting your home ready for colder temperatures, preparing for the next Pittsburgh snowstorm or looking for ways to make your home more energy-efficient, Winter Ready is here to help.

Listen to WISH 99.7 each week for two new Winter Ready tips, presented by Peoples Natural Gas, and check back here for helpful information throughout the season.

Winter Ready — helping Pittsburgh stay warm, safe and prepared all winter long.

WINTER HOME SAFETY

When Pittsburgh temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, keeping your home warm and safe becomes more important than ever! Peoples Natural Gas reminds you that a little preparation can go a long way toward protecting your family throughout the winter months. Have your heating system inspected regularly by a qualified professional, make sure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly, and keep natural gas meters and outdoor appliance vents clear of snow and ice. Never use your oven or stove to heat your home, and always keep flammable materials away from heating equipment. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safer, more comfortable winter.

Winter Ready Tips – Winter Home Safety:

Traveling over Thanksgiving? Before you leave, give your home a quick winter check. Make sure doors and windows are securely closed, set your thermostat to a temperature that helps protect plumbing from freezing, and check that your heating system is operating properly. If a cold snap is expected, arrange for someone you trust to check on the house. A little planning can provide peace of mind while you're away. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Pittsburgh winter weather can change quickly! This holiday week, take a few minutes to put together a home emergency kit. Include flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, nonperishable food, necessary medications, and a battery-powered radio. Keep important phone numbers handy, and make sure everyone knows where the supplies are stored. Being prepared before a winter storm makes it easier to respond when the unexpected happens. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
As we welcome a new year, here's a resolution that's worth keeping: make home safety a priority. Test your carbon monoxide alarms, check your furnace filter, and make sure heating vents are clear. Take a look around your heating equipment for clutter, and schedule professional maintenance if it's overdue. These simple habits can help keep your home safer and more comfortable throughout the rest of winter. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
January can bring some of Pittsburgh's coldest temperatures, and frozen pipes can cause expensive damage. Protect exposed plumbing in unheated areas with appropriate insulation. During extreme cold, keep your home adequately heated, even when you're away. Know where your main water shutoff valve is located, just in case. A little preparation before temperatures plunge can help prevent a major headache later. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Pittsburgh weather can turn from calm to snowy in a hurry! Before the next winter storm, check that you have flashlights, batteries, drinking water, nonperishable food, and any necessary medications. Charge your phones, keep emergency numbers handy, and know where your household supplies are stored. Don't forget to check on older relatives or neighbors who might need assistance. A little preparation can make a storm much easier to handle. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
During a Pittsburgh cold snap, a simple phone call can make a big difference. Check on older neighbors, relatives, or anyone who may have trouble keeping their home warm. Make sure they have working heat, enough supplies, and someone to contact in an emergency. If heating costs are creating difficulties, assistance programs may be available through Peoples Natural Gas. Find information about customer resources at peoples-gas.com. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
A late-February winter storm can bring snow, ice, and unexpected power outages. If the electricity goes out, use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible. Never operate a portable generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows and doors. And never use a gas oven or outdoor grill to heat your home. Keep emergency supplies accessible and follow local emergency updates until power is restored. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
March has arrived, but Pittsburgh winter weather isn't finished with us yet! One day may feel like spring, and the next could bring snow and freezing temperatures. Keep your heating system maintained and your emergency supplies handy. Continue checking outdoor vents for snow and ice, and don't turn off your home's heat too early. Staying prepared now can help you handle those unpredictable March cold snaps. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
After months of freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, your home could use a little attention. Check around doors and windows for drafts, look for damaged weatherstripping, and make sure outdoor heating vents remain unobstructed. If your furnace has been running all winter, check its filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. A few simple inspections now can help keep your home comfortable through the changing seasons. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Spring is almost here, and you may already be thinking about landscaping, planting trees, or installing a new fence. Before any project that involves digging, remember to contact Pennsylvania 811. Underground utility lines may be closer to the surface than you think. Have those lines marked before work begins, and follow the required waiting period and safe digging practices. It's an important step toward protecting your family and neighborhood. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Winter may be over, but your energy bills may still be hitting hard. Peoples Natural Gas offers Customer Assistance Programs that can help. Programs like LIHEAP and the Dollar Energy Fund provide grants that don’t have to be repaid – they’re awarded first-come, first-served, so don’t delay, apply today! Visit peoples-gas.com/help or call 1-800-400-WARM to learn what assistance you are eligible for. Stay Safe and Stay Warm with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.

HOME HEATING & ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Keeping your home warm and comfortable during Pittsburgh's cold winter months doesn't have to mean higher energy costs! Peoples Natural Gas encourages homeowners to take a few simple steps to improve energy efficiency and help manage heating bills. Start by having your heating system professionally maintained, replacing furnace filters regularly, and keeping heating vents clear of furniture and other obstructions. Seal drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss, and consider using a programmable thermostat to better manage your home's temperature throughout the day. Small changes can make a big difference in keeping your home cozy while using energy more efficiently.

Winter Ready Tips – Home Heating & Energy Efficiency:

Before Pittsburgh's winter chill settles in, make sure your furnace is ready for the season! Schedule an inspection with a qualified heating professional to help ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently. And remember to change your furnace filter. A clean filter helps air circulate properly and keeps your heating system working its best. A little preparation now can make a big difference when temperatures drop. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Feeling a chilly draft around your windows or doors? Your heated air could be escaping! Take a few minutes to check for gaps and use weatherstripping or caulk where appropriate. Close curtains at night to help reduce heat loss, and keep furniture away from heating vents so warm air can circulate. These simple steps can help make your home more comfortable without turning up the thermostat. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Looking for a simple way to manage your heating costs this winter? Pay attention to your thermostat! Lowering the temperature a few degrees when you're asleep or away can help reduce energy use, as long as your home stays warm enough to protect people, pets, and plumbing. A programmable thermostat can make those adjustments automatically. Small changes to your daily routine can add up over the heating season. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
The new year is the perfect time to look for ways to save energy at home. Start by checking for drafts, keeping heating vents unobstructed, and using your thermostat wisely. If energy bills are hitting you hard, try these tips and look into Customer Assistance Programs offered by Peoples Natural Gas. Every year, thousands of eligible customers never even apply for help! Take advantage of what’s available – learn more at peoples-gas.com. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7
When Pittsburgh temperatures take a nosedive, even small drafts can make your home feel colder. Before you splurge on new windows, try weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps. Plastic window sheeting can make a huge difference in retaining heat at a fraction of the cost of new windows. Visit peoples-gas.com for more ways to save and get help with winter heating bills. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Here's a little winter energy-saving trick that doesn't cost a thing! On sunny days, open curtains on south-facing windows to let natural sunlight help warm your home. When the sun goes down, close them to help reduce heat loss. Keep your thermostat at a comfortable, energy-conscious setting, and make sure warm air can circulate freely. Sometimes the smallest adjustments make a noticeable difference in winter comfort. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Your furnace has probably been working overtime this winter. Here's a quick maintenance reminder: check the air filter! A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your heating system work harder than necessary. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for inspecting and replacing filters, and keep supply and return vents clear. It's a small task that can help your home stay comfortable during Pittsburgh's coldest weeks. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
This Valentine's week, show your home a little love! Take a few minutes to check for drafts, make sure heating vents aren't blocked, and test your carbon monoxide alarms. Keep furniture and anything flammable safely away from heating equipment. These simple steps can help create a warmer, more comfortable home for everyone you care about. Because nothing says home like feeling safe, cozy, and prepared for winter. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Looking for ways to manage your energy use without sacrificing comfort? Start with your thermostat. When appropriate for your household, lower the temperature a few degrees while you're sleeping or away. Keep interior doors and heating vents positioned for proper airflow, and close curtains after sunset to help reduce heat loss. You don't need a major renovation to start making your home more energy-conscious this winter. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
As we spring forward, it's a great time to give your home an energy-saving checkup! Review your programmable thermostat settings so your heating schedule matches your family's routine. On warmer days, take advantage of natural sunlight, and continue closing curtains when temperatures drop overnight. And remember, March can still bring chilly weather, so keep your heating system ready for another cold snap. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Spring is officially here, making this a great time to check how your home handled another Pittsburgh winter. Look for drafts, damaged weatherstripping, and areas that may need attention before next heating season. Keep your natural gas meter accessible, and make sure outdoor appliance vents remain clear. Remember, regular maintenance and good safety habits aren't just for winter. They help protect your home all year long. Stay Safe and Stay Warm with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.

HELP WITH WINTER HEATING COSTS

Keeping your home warm during Pittsburgh's cold winter months is important, but we know heating costs can sometimes put a strain on the household budget. Peoples Natural Gas offers a variety of programs and resources to help eligible customers manage their natural gas bills and stay comfortable throughout the heating season. From payment assistance programs like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) to budget billing options, payment arrangements, and energy-saving assistance, help may be available when you need it most. Don't wait until heating bills become overwhelming to explore your options. Learn more about available assistance programs, eligibility requirements, and ways to manage your winter heating costs at Peoples Natural Gas.

Winter Ready Tips – Help With Winter Heating Costs:

Here's one winter safety tip every Pittsburgh family should know. Natural gas has a distinctive rotten-egg smell added to help you recognize a possible leak. If you notice that odor, leave the area immediately. Don't use light switches, phones, or anything that could create a spark while you're inside. Once you're safely away, call 911 or Peoples Natural Gas's emergency number. Knowing what to do can help protect your family. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
You can't see it, smell it, or taste it. That's what makes carbon monoxide so dangerous. As heating season begins, make sure your home has working carbon monoxide alarms and test them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Have your furnace and other heating appliances inspected by qualified professionals, too. If an alarm sounds or you suspect carbon monoxide, get everyone outside immediately and call 911 from a safe location. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Thanksgiving means family, friends, and plenty of activity around the house! Before guests arrive, make sure heating vents and registers aren't blocked by furniture, rugs, or decorations. Keep anything flammable away from furnaces and other heating equipment. And remember, your gas oven is for cooking, never for heating your home. A few simple precautions can help keep your holiday gathering warm, comfortable, and safe. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Here's an important winter safety reminder. Your furnace and other natural gas appliances need room to operate safely. Keep boxes, holiday decorations, cleaning supplies, and other flammable materials away from heating equipment. Make sure air vents and registers aren't blocked, and keep the surrounding area free of dust and clutter. And remember to change your furnace filter regularly! Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
When the snow starts piling up around Pittsburgh, remember to check your natural gas meter. Keep the area around it clear of snow and ice so it remains accessible and operates safely. Use a broom or soft brush to gently remove loose snow. Never kick the meter, strike it with a shovel, or use heat to melt ice. A little attention after a snowfall can help prevent winter problems. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
After a heavy snowfall, there's one part of your home you shouldn't overlook: outdoor heating appliance vents. Snow and ice can block exhaust openings, potentially creating dangerous conditions or causing equipment to shut down. Check that vents are clear, following your appliance manufacturer's instructions. If you notice a blockage you can't safely remove, contact a qualified professional. Keep those exhaust pathways clear throughout the winter. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Decking the halls this holiday season? Make sure your decorations don't create a safety hazard. Keep holiday trees, wrapped presents, and other flammable decorations away from furnaces, fireplaces, and heating equipment. Never block heating vents with furniture or holiday displays. And before everyone heads to bed, turn off decorative lights. A little extra care can help keep your home safe while you enjoy the season. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
When family and friends gather for the holidays, keeping everyone warm is important. But remember, never use a gas oven, stovetop, or outdoor grill to heat your home. These appliances aren't designed for indoor heating and can create serious safety hazards, including carbon monoxide poisoning. Use properly maintained heating equipment instead, and make sure carbon monoxide alarms are working. Celebrate the holidays with warmth and safety in mind. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
As we welcome a new year, here's a resolution that's worth keeping: make home safety a priority. Test your carbon monoxide alarms, change your furnace filter, and make sure heating vents are clear. Take a look around your heating equipment for clutter, and schedule professional maintenance if it's overdue. These simple habits can help keep your home safer and more comfortable throughout the rest of winter. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Did you know natural gas remains the most affordable way to heat your home and water? Keep your gas appliances in good shape with regular maintenance by a qualified professional, and change your furnace filters regularly so they operate safely and more efficiently. Keep all heating appliances – gas and electric – clear from flammable materials to protect what’s most important. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
When you're clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways, don't forget about your natural gas meter and outdoor appliance vents. Heavy snow and ice can create problems if these areas become blocked. Gently brush loose snow away using a broom or soft brush. Never strike the meter with a shovel or try to melt ice with heat. Keeping these areas accessible is an important part of winter home safety. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Carbon monoxide is especially dangerous because you can't see it or smell it. Symptoms of exposure may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and unusual tiredness. Make sure your home has working carbon monoxide alarms, and have fuel-burning appliances inspected by qualified professionals. If several people in your home suddenly feel sick, or a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, get everyone outside immediately and call 911 from a safe location. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Natural gas safety is important in every season, especially when our homes are closed up tight for winter. A rotten-egg odor, an unusual hissing sound, or damaged gas equipment could indicate a possible leak. If you suspect one, leave the area immediately. Don't operate switches or use your phone until you're safely away. Then call 911 or Peoples Natural Gas at 1-800-400-4271. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
Changing the clocks is a great reminder to check your home's safety alarms. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions, and replace batteries when needed. Make sure alarms haven't reached the end of their recommended service life. Carbon monoxide safety matters year-round, especially in homes with fuel-burning appliances. A few minutes of attention can help protect your family every day. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.

ASSISTANCE RESOURCES

Pittsburgh winters can bring freezing temperatures and higher heating bills, but you don't have to face those challenges alone. Peoples Natural Gas offers a variety of assistance programs and resources designed to help eligible customers manage energy costs, improve home efficiency, and maintain safe, reliable heating. Whether you're looking for help paying your natural gas bill or making important home heating improvements, these programs may provide valuable support.

Winter Ready Tips – Heating Assistance:

Winter heating bills can put extra pressure on the household budget, but help may be available. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, provides assistance to eligible Pennsylvania households with heating costs. Don't wait until you're in crisis to explore your options. Visit peoples-gas.com/help to learn about available programs and how to apply. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.

Wouldn't it be nice to make your winter heating bills a little more predictable? Peoples Natural Gas offers Budget Billing, which spreads estimated annual natural gas costs into more consistent monthly payments. Spread winter’s home heating costs across the year so you have a little more for those stocking stuffers! Learn more ways to save and get help with bills at peoples-gas.com. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
What happens if your furnace stops working during a Pittsburgh cold snap? Don't wait until temperatures become dangerously low to seek help. Contact a qualified heating professional and avoid using unsafe alternatives, like gas ovens or outdoor grills, for heat. Peoples Natural Gas offers Customer Assistance Programs including emergency repairs eligible customers. Learn more at peoples-gas.com/help. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
January heating bills can be a challenge, especially when Pittsburgh gets hit with a stretch of freezing temperatures. If you're having trouble keeping up, don't wait to ask for help. Peoples Natural Gas offers payment arrangements and assistance programs for qualifying customers. You may also be eligible for LIHEAP, Pennsylvania's home heating assistance program. Explore your options and available resources at peoples-gas.com. Get Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.
As winter winds down, heating bills can still be a concern. If you're struggling with your natural gas payments, don't put off exploring available help. Peoples Natural Gas offers payment options and customer assistance programs for eligible households. Some programs may also help improve your home's energy efficiency for future winters. Visit peoples-gas.com to learn about current resources and find the support that's right for you. Stay Winter Ready with Peoples Natural Gas and WISH 99.7.

Explore Available Assistance Programs:

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): A federally funded program administered by Pennsylvania that helps eligible households with home heating costs. Assistance may include grants toward heating bills and emergency heating needs.
Budget Billing: Helps make monthly natural gas bills more predictable by spreading estimated annual heating costs into more consistent monthly payments, making household budgeting easier throughout the year.
Weatherization & Energy Efficiency Assistance: Eligible customers may qualify for programs that help reduce energy usage through home improvements, weatherization measures, and energy-saving education.
Emergency Furnace & Line Repair Assistance: Qualifying customers may be eligible for assistance with certain repairs to heating equipment or customer-owned natural gas service lines, helping restore safe, reliable heating.
Payment Assistance & Arrangements: Peoples Natural Gas offers additional resources and payment options for customers experiencing financial difficulties.

Don't wait until winter heating costs become overwhelming to explore your options. Learn more about available programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply by visiting Peoples Natural Gas.

NATURAL GAS SAFETY

When winter weather hits Pittsburgh, natural gas safety is an important part of keeping your home and family protected. Peoples Natural Gas reminds customers to take a few simple precautions throughout the colder months. Keep outdoor natural gas meters and appliance vents clear of snow and ice, and never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home. Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have natural gas appliances inspected regularly by qualified professionals. It's also important to recognize the warning signs of a possible natural gas leak, including a distinctive rotten-egg odor. If you suspect a leak, leave the area immediately and call 911 or Peoples Natural Gas at 1-800-400-4271 from a safe location.