
The United States Fuel Administration was established on Aug. 23, 1917 to conserve energy through regulated use of coal and oil during World War I. American citizens were tasked with conserving resources by following strict regulations, including Daylight Saving Time and “Tag Your Shovel Day” on Jan. 30, 1918. The USFA provided tips to help conserve coal supplies, and orders went into effect in Rhode Island to limit heating and lighting for offices, banks, and businesses. People were encouraged to follow these rules to avoid more drastic measures, and many participated in “Heatless Mondays.” Despite some disobedience, most citizens abided by the rules, and on Jan. 30, 1918, over twenty million American school children participated in “Tag Your Shovel Day.”