CON EDISON RESPONDS TO HEAT WAVE, OFFERS COOLING TIPS

Con Edison crews continue working day and night restoring service to customers impacted by this week's intense heat wave. The company has hundreds of extra crews and support personnel available 24/7 to respond to any service problems that may arise. 

As of 6:30 a.m., the company had restored power to approximately 18,700 customers over the past 24 hours and was working to restore about 6,300 who were without power.

Con Edison urges customers to report power interruptions or service problems, as well as view service restoration information, online at www.conEd.com, or on their cell phones and PDAs. Customers can also call 1-800-75-CONED.

Con Edison yesterday broke its 2010 record for peak electricity use when the company delivered 12,963 megawatts at 5 p.m. Usage would have been even higher if not for the efforts of Con Edison’s customers, who responded to the company’s request for conservation.

If you experience a power outage:

Turn off all light switches and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored. Leave at least one light switch in the on position to alert you when power has been restored;

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Each time the door is opened, heat enters and speeds the thawing process;
• Have a battery-powered radio and a supply of extra batteries handy. Have flashlights available for every member of your household;
• Listen to your battery-operated radio on for updates on our restoration progress and safety tips;
• Fill spare containers with water for cooking and washing;
• Use candles and storm lanterns carefully. Keep them out of drafts, away from flammable materials, and out of the reach of children.

Here are some steps the company is recommending to stay cool this summer:

Make sure air conditioner filters are clean for peak efficiency;

• Set thermostats no lower than 78 degrees.  Each degree lower increases cooling costs by 6 percent;
• If you have a room air-conditioning unit, close off the rooms not being used; if you have central air, block the vents in un-used or vacant rooms;
• Also turn off lights and other appliances, use a timer to turn them on as necessary, and turn your computer off when not at home to conserve;

To reduce heat and moisture, run appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers in the early morning or late at night when it’s generally cooler. Use a microwave to cook, or barbecue outside if possible.