Hopping out of his truck Thursday morning, Frank Pence began removing caps and securing hoses to a 2,600 gallon propane storage tank on his truck.

It’s just one of a handful of times he’ll refuel this week.

“We’ve been extremely busy getting deliveries out to customers,” Gene McLaurin with Swink Quality Oil and Gas in Rockingham said. “We’ve been working nights and weekends making sure folks can stay warm.”

Pence, also with Swink Oil, said he’s been working a little later and getting up to work Saturday mornings.

“Been getting some overtime on the weekend too,” Pence joked as his tank filled with propane from another 30,000 gallon bulk storage tank.

Local oil and gas companies reported a steep spike in the sale of oil and gas used in home heating since the cold snap blanketed much of the country.

“Emergency deliveries are up,” McLaurin said. “And trying to keep up with the demand. So far, we’ve been doing a good job.”

McLaurin noted an increase in the number of call-ins and emergency calls for residents who have lost heat due to low heating fuel.

“It’s always good to fill up tanks before winter comes,” McLaurin said.

According to McLaurin, regular route customers, or those who have scheduled to have tanks filled in early autumn, are in better shape when temperatures like this drop since they won’t have to worry about emergency refills.

Some customers find solace in plans offered by gas and oil companies.

Swink offers locked-in pricing for gas, payment plans and plans to pre-buy.

Pre-buy offers customers the chance to purchase gas early in the year at a locked-in price for the winter months.

Even then, there are those who cannot afford to pay well in advance, but help can be provided locally.

According to the Richmond County Department of Social Services, depending on certain circumstances some people may be eligible for supplementary funding for heating and electric bills as well.

For people age 60 and above, those who are disabled and families with children 12 and under are eligible if monetarily they are unable to make the payment. Also, those with a medical note from a doctor stating they absolutely need the extra heat can get help. A final notice from the service provider is required.

“It’s definitely a busy time and we’re doing everything we can to keep people warm,” McLaurin said.

Staff writer Bryan Stewart can be reached at 997-3111 ext. 15 or by e-mail at bstewart@yourdailyjournal.com.