Missouri Gas Energy announced Wednesday it will extend the terms of the Missouri Cold Weather Rule to work with customers who have fallen behind on their accounts.

The gas service company said it is voluntarily extending the terms of the rule because of the bitterly cold winter.

The extension will run through the end of April. The Cold Weather Rule normally runs from November through March.

The extension will let eligible customers continue or restore gas service by making an initial payment and then beginning a 12-month payment plan.

Missouri Gas Energy urges any customer struggling to pay their bill to call for information about payment options.

Kansas City customers can call 816-756-5252. People who live elsewhere can call 800-582-1234.