Extended hours for home heating oil, propane carriers OK'd through Feb.

CONCORD - The New Hampshire Department of Safety has signed off on an extension to an emergency declaration that temporarily lifts restrictions on hours of service for motor carriers that deliver propane and oil as heating sources for homes and businesses in the state.

The initial emergency declaration, issued last month, was set to expire on Saturday, according to a release from the Dept. of Safety. As a result of the extension, the declaration now expires at midnight Feb. 28.

The emergency declaration temporarily allows certain commercial drivers to work extended hours if they're able and asked to do so.

Motor carriers who choose to operate under the exemption cannot require or allow a fatigued or ill driver to get behind the wheel. Drivers for carriers that choose to operate under the emergency declaration must have a printed copy of the declaration in their possession.

Other regulations specific to the use of controlled substances and alcohol, and size and weight requirements, remain in effect.