State officials have issued a so-called Flex Alert asking the public to conserve power during a punishing heatwave. The alert was issued the alert for 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday.
Here are tips on conserving power.
During periods of intense heat, power outages can occur as residents and businesses turn on their air conditioners at the same time. This can cause an increase in voltage in the neighborhood power distribution equipment.
Energy conservation is particularly essential between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., according to the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). Due to this, the agency advises its subscribers to follow the following recommendations:
- Set the thermostats to 78 degrees or more.
- Turn off unnecessary lights.
- Set the water heaters to 120 degrees
- Use large appliances only late in the afternoon or early in the morning
- Turn off the pumps in the pool.
How to prepare for a blackout
In the event of a blackout, the LADWP advises its subscribers to follow the following recommendations to be prepared for possible power outages:
- Store flashlights and batteries in easily accessible places in the home.
- Make a mental note to know where everyone is.
- Keep a battery-powered radio nearby to receive updates on power outages.
- Ventilate your home at night by opening doors and windows so that air can circulate and cool the house.
- Always have a phone charger in the car. Having a fully charged phone to talk to friends and family during a power outage can be comforting and informative.
- Keep non-perishable food on hand in case refrigerated food is damaged.
- Keep a refrigerator nearby to transfer food, using the ice you have before the interruption of service.
- If you are medically dependent on critical equipment, consider purchasing a gasoline generator as a backup.
The LAWDP also advises to be alert to the Flex Alerts that are issued during the peak energy hours in which users are asked to follow the recommendations on energy saving.
