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Community Corner

Hot Temperatures Expected to Continue, Utilities Urge Conservation

While local utilities say they have enough power to meet demand, here's how you can beat the heat for another week.

The daytime temperatures in Fountain Valley are forecasted to reach the mid to high 80s throughout this week with some morning low clouds, then "dip" to the high-70s by Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

In other words, get use to some hot weather for awhile.

Throughout Southern California, the electrical utilities are warning residents to conserve power. Southern California Edison suggests turning down the air conditioning and closing the blinds, among many things.

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Edison officials said in a press release that they figure to have enough power to last through the current heat wave, "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."

Though officials are cautious in light of the , San Diego Gas & Electric and SCE have

Find out what's happening in Fountain Valleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

There were fears this spring that the could , but San Diego Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison

Here are some tips for saving energy:

  • 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.

But if getting out of the house seems like a better idea, try this:

  • Go to the beach, even if everyone else is, too.
  • Take a boat tour out of Dana Harbor or Newport Harbor.
  • Go to the mall and either shop or people watch.
  • Go grocery shopping and spend lots of time in the frozen food isle.
  • Get a frozen treat: ice cream, yogurt, smoothies.
  • Visit a museum in Orange County or Los Angeles
  • Go to a water park, although the lines can make it hotter.
  • Visit a friend with a pool (and bring the drinks!).

 

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