The promotional mailer promised a free dinner and the possibility of a significant reduction in energy costs.

But, according to officials at the Flathead Electric Cooperative, out-of-state companies’ claims — including those made in a recent flyer mailed to Flathead County residents — often equate to scams.

Flathead Electric spokeswoman Wendy Ostrom-Price said an elderly woman recently fell victim to a company’s claim that by purchasing an energy package, she could achieve energy savings that would result in a federal tax refund and a rebate from her local electric utility.

When the woman called the cooperative to request a return on her $2,800 investment, she learned the products she purchased did not qualify.

Ostrom-Price said the woman was able to recoup a portion of her investment, but her experience should be used as a warning for others looking to catch a break on energy costs.

Co-op Energy Services Supervisor Ross Holter attended a meeting hosted by a North Carolina-based company Oct. 18 and reported that salesmen made statements and promises that were misleading at best, and lies at worst.

She said the recent activity by such businesses in the Flathead Valley should serve as a reminder for customers to contact the cooperative before purchasing products.