Due to very hot temperatures we are experiencing today – it’s already reached the high 90s in Larchmont Village – a Flex Alert has been issued by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) asking consumer to save energy from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, June 20.
Consumers can help avoid power outages by turning off all unnecessary lights, using major appliances after 9 p.m. and setting air conditioners to 78 degrees or higher.  Consumers are urged to conserve electricity especially during the late afternoon when air conditioners typically are at peak use.
Flex Alert is issued by ISO who operates the high voltage grid in California and in parts of six western states. when the electricity grid is under stress because of generation or transmission outages, or from persistent hot temperatures.
The Mayor’s office released a list of cooling centers for those without air conditioning. One of the best places to beat the heat in the neighborhood are our local libraries.  The Memorial Branch Library at 4625 W Olympic Blvd; The John C. Fremont Branch at 6121 Melrose Ave  and Wilshire Library at 141 St Andrews Place, all are open today  10 am – 8 pm.
More tips for keeping cool and saving energy:
Tips for staying cool and safe during hot weather:
- Avoid unnecessary sun exposure. But when outside, use sunscreen and wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim.
- Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
- Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
- Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
- Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
- Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.
- Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
- Infants and young children can get dehydrated very quickly. Make sure they are given plenty of cool water to drink. Keep children indoors or shaded as much as possible.
- Check on family members, seniors, friends, neighbors, and people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
- Older adults and seniors should open windows, use fans, or seek refuge from the heat at a senior center or cooling center.
- Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles.  For more tips on taking care of your pets during the heat, visit http://www.
laanimalservices.com/general- information/hot-weather-tips/
Tips for saving energy during hot weather:
- Keep your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher.
- If you have to run your air conditioning or other major appliances, do it earlier in the day or after 9:00 pm.
- Unplug your cell phone chargers and other appliances when you’re not using them.
- Turn off unnecessary lights.
- Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees.
- Turn off your pool heater if you have one.
For information on the L.A. Department of Water & Power’s efforts to encourage energy conservation and ensure summer electrical reliability, visit myladwp.com
