PLATTSBURGH -- Bill Creighton is already feeling the pinch filling up the gas tank just to get to work.

The Plattsburgh father said he tries to cut back spending where he can and often gets gas in Vermont, where the 10-minute drive from his job in Rouses Point can help him save a few bucks.

And he's already worried about making ends meet this winter when it comes time to heat his home.

"You never thought you'd be worried about heat in June," he said Saturday when he joined dozens of other area residents at the Town of Plattsburgh Alternative Heating and Energy Fair.

"It's a really big concern."

Like other kerosene consumers, Creighton said he's now looking into converting to natural gas, an option he said could save about $3 a gallon, according to information he got from New York State Electric & Gas.

He first thought about switching over a few months ago, but at the time "didn't think it was going to be this much of a necessity."

Though he's worried about the cost of converting his heating system, he learned Saturday that he could qualify for a low-interest loan that could help with the initial cost of the switch.

"I guess there's some good help out there if you qualify," he said about the various assistance-programs, like the Home Energy Assistance Program that could help with this winter's heating costs.

Patty Galarneau of Saranac said she and her husband planned ahead and have stocked enough wood to get them through the winter, though she's worried how elderly residents are going to manage.

"They're fighting paycheck to paycheck. And to have to worry about whether they should get heat or food is just ridiculous," she said.

"I feel really bad for a lot of them. Something has to give sooner or later."

Though the Galarneaus know their wood stove will be stocked, Mrs. Galarneau said they've noticed fewer people are selling wood and that it's also rising in price.

In an effort to become more energy efficient, the Galarneaus have already switched over to Energy Star light bulbs and are looking into solar power.

Stanley and Carole Brunell have been visiting family in the area and decided to stop by the energy fair before they headed back to their Connecticut home.