Many homeowners today are understandably concerned about the coming winter and how their families might be affected by the increasing costs of basic utilities. In homes where the furnace requires propane to produce heat, the concerns can be even more pronounced as record prices are being recorded for consumers of all types of petroleum products. Fortunately, there are some proactive steps that homeowners who depend on propane can take to help lessen the impact of higher prices while also helping to ensure that their home has an ample supply on hand throughout the coming winter.