Heat Advisory

Extreme heat warnings

Heat has become the deadliest form of extreme weather in the U.S. Stay safe and stay cool this summer, and check on those who may be vulnerable in extreme heat.

Remember:

• Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Seek air conditioning. Spend time in an air-conditioned building or cooling center if your home becomes too hot. Seek shade when working outdoors.
• Avoid the hottest hours. Limit outdoor work and exercise between late morning and early evening when temperatures and heat index values are highest.
• Dress for the weather. Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing to help your body stay cooler.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car — even for a minute.
• Check on neighbors, older adults and those with medical conditions.
• Use fans the right way. Raise your thermostat a few degrees and use ceiling or portable fans in occupied rooms to help you feel cooler. Turn fans off when you leave the room.
• Block the sun. Close blinds, shades and curtains during the hottest part of the day to reduce indoor heat.
• Give your AC a break. Delay heat-producing activities like baking, laundry and vacuuming until evening when outdoor temperatures are lower.
• Check your HVAC filter. A clean air filter improves airflow, helps your air conditioner run more efficiently and can reduce energy use.
• Reduce unnecessary electricity use. Turn off lights, unplug electronics that aren’t being used and switch computers to sleep mode after periods of inactivity.

Stay cool, stay hydrated and use energy wisely. Small changes can help protect your health, reduce strain on your air conditioner and lower summer energy costs.

Support heat safety for communities and work crews

Extreme heat increases the risk of both heat-related illness and electrical hazards. Now is the time to amplify safety messaging.

Members, share these resources to help protect your community and keep utility workers safe on the job:

• Heat stress while on the job graphic
• How to help with heat stroke graphic 
• Intense summertime heat article
• Avoid heat stress safety tip
• Prevent hot car deaths social graphic
• Stay cool and save infographic
• Peak energy demand infographic  
• Peak energy advisory social graphic 
• Peak energy alert social graphic