With high temperatures forecast in many parts of Southern
California today and throughout the week, Southern California Edison (SCE) is
urging customers to conserve power.
SCE anticipates having sufficient resources to meet
forecast electricity demand. But with energy use rising during extreme heat
conditions, conservation can provide an added reserve should an unexpected
power emergency occur, such as mechanical problems affecting a major power
plant or wildfires shutting down a major transmission system. Conservation also
helps minimize the impact on the distribution system when customers use energy
around-the-clock.
Conservation helps customers keep their bills lower
during high temperatures - bills can increase up to 30 percent for residential
customers who use air conditioning. Conservation also helps reduce stress on
the overall electrical system.
SCE recommends that customers:
. Set
thermostats no lower than 78 degrees.
. Use
electric fans instead of air conditioning when practical.
. Turn off
unused appliances and equipment.
. Shut off
lights when leaving a room.
. Close
drapes and blinds to keep out direct sunlight during hot periods.
. Avoid
using evaporative coolers or humidifiers at the same time an air conditioner is
running.
. Operate
swimming pool equipment and energy-intensive appliances, such as dishwashers, washing
machines and dryers, during early morning and evening hours.
. Limit the
opening and reopening of refrigerators, which are major users of electricity in
most homes.
. When
possible, businesses should shift power-intensive work processes to morning or
evening hours.
. Turn off
lights in unused areas.
SCE recommends customers try to stay as cool as possible
during the heat.
. Keep
outdoor activities to a minimum, and drink a lot of water during the hottest
parts of the day.
. During a
power outage, turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment,
including sensitive
electronics.
. Open the
refrigerator and freezer only when necessary to keep the food cold.
. Low-income
and medically sensitive customers can take advantage of "Cool
Centers," which are operated by local
governments and community-based organizations. A list of locations can be
found at www.sce.com/coolcenters
SCE recommends customers follow these safety tips if a
power outage occurs:
. Use
flashlights for lighting during a power outage; do not use candles because they
pose a significant fire
hazard.
. Never
attempt to move or go near a downed power line. Call 911 to report the
situation.
. Watch for
traffic signals that may be out. Approach those intersections as four-way
stops.
. If someone
in your home is dependent on electric-powered, life sustaining medical
equipment, have an emergency
plan that includes a back-up power source, or make arrangements to relocate.
For updates, follow SCE on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SCE