LADWP Urges Energy Conservation; Heat, Fires May Put Extra Demands on Power Load.

LOS ANGELES -- Mayor James Hahn and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) asked for the public's help today in conserving energy in light of a continued heat wave and brush fires burning in the vicinity of several major power lines.

With the hot temperatures expected to continue, LADWP has adequate energy resources to meet forecasted loads. But using energy wisely is always a good practice and is especially recommended when temperatures soar, said Mayor James Hahn.

On Tuesday, the city's energy load peaked at 5287 megawatts. The record load was 5643 megawatts, set on Sept. 1, 1998.

LADWP's energy capacity is about 7200 megawatts to serve its 1.4 million electricity customers. Local energy demand usually runs higher as businesses and residents turn up their air conditioners, and usually peaks in the late afternoon.

"Customers can help conserve energy by shifting their electricity usage to off-peak hours where possible. This helps reduce stress on the power system," said Randy Howard, executive assistant to the general manager.

LADWP offers these ways to keep cool and use energy efficiently:

--Turn off lights when not in use.

--Adjust thermostat to 78 degrees to reduce energy usage.

--Limit the use of appliances during peak hours of the day -- use washing machines, vacuum cleaners and other heavy appliances during evening hours.

--Keep draperies and windows closed during the day to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from seeping through the glass.

--Try to avoid cooking during peak hours of the day since it will add to the heat inside the home.

--Ventilate your home at night by opening windows and doors to clear out the heat and allow cooler air to circulate.

--Use room and ceiling fans to help circulate air within a room, and blow air over your body to cool off.

--Weather-strip and seal around all doors and windows to keep the heat out and the cool air inside.

--Plant shade trees on the south, east and west sides of the home, and use trellises, awnings, window films and outside shade screens to keep homes cool.

--Stay indoors as much as possible; eat well-balanced, light meals; drink plenty of water regularly; and protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power was established more than 100 years ago to provide a reliable and safe water and electric supply to the city's businesses and residents. For more information, please visit www.ladwp.com.