The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission reminded consumers to conserve energy during days with extreme heat and humidity.

Tips to avoid the summer heat and humidity are:

On hot and humid days, set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees or off when you are away for long periods of time;

· Keep drapes closed and shades drawn. The amount of energy required to cool your home will be considerably less;

· Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and check air and return vents on a regular basis to keep circulation air paths clear; and

· Relax in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.

Before a heat wave, learn the terms used by the National Weather Service:

· Heat Warning – Life threatening heat is occurring, imminent or highly likely;

· Heat Advisory – High and potentially dangerous values of heat are occurring, imminent or highly likely; and

· Heat Watch – Excessive heat is possible in the next day to two.

During a heat wave, there are easy ways to stay healthy and safe:

Older adults and people with chronic health problems should stay indoors during a heat wave and in the coolest available place;

· Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool;

· Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeinated beverages, they make the heat’s effects on your body worse;

· Strenuous activity should be reduced, eliminated or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day; and

· Caution should be used when operating fans in closed rooms so as not to simulate a convection oven. Windows should be opened and a fan used to exhaust heat from the area.

Print out your copy of "Be Prepared for Summer Heat Waves" Fact Sheet.

7/8/2005