(AP) -- JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri residents are encouraged to call a state consumer hotline for help if their electricity is shut off during the current heat wave because they couldn't pay the bill.
The state's hot weather rule forbids utilities from disconnecting electrical services when temperatures are projected to be higher than 95 degrees, or the heat index is expected to exceed 100 degrees.
Temperatures above both thresholds are expected to continue through the weekend and much of the summer in the Midwest.
Attorney General Chris Koster says most utility companies will follow the rules, but the consumer hotline is there to help anyone who is mistakenly cut off.
The hotline -- 1-800-392-8222 -- is operated during normal business hours.
(Copyright ©2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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