Press Release

PUC: Make Earth Day Pledge to be Ready for Summer Heat Waves

Published on 4/18/2008

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – In its fifth conservation-related announcement leading up to Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today asked utility customers to make an Earth Day Pledge to be ready to cope with heat waves as warmer weather arrives and to cool their homes in a more energy efficient manner.

“After a cool spring, the temperatures are getting warmer,” said Chairman Wendell F. Holland.  “Before you know it, summer will be here and April showers will barely be a memory.  Make your Earth Day Pledge to save energy, save the environment and maybe even learn how to save a life during a heat wave.”  Chairman Holland noted that the heat-wave awareness campaign was recommended by the PUC’s Consumer Advisory Council.

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

Consumers can view our Summer Heat Wave fact sheet on the PUC Web site.

All this week and continuing until Earth Day, April 22, the PUC will distribute conservation tips for consumers, including guidance on how to conserve water and energy, and some simple spring cleaning chores that may make your home more energy efficient.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov