Stay safe when working outside in the heat

When the weather heats up, it can become dangerous for many, especially those working out in the heat.

Anyone spending time outdoors or working during the hottest parts of the day should take precautions to stay hydrated and be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

In the home, OPPD experts have the following tips for saving energy and saving on energy bills during heat waves:

  • Raise the temperature of your thermostat a few degrees and use ceiling and box fans to provide continuous circulation of air in a room. This creates the wind chill effect whereby the body feels cooler than the room temperature.
  • If your thermostat is located in a hallway with bedrooms, open the doors. Closed doors prevent air movement around the thermostat, which can provide a false reading that causes your AC to run longer than needed.
  • Try to limit using heat-generating appliances (oven, stove, dishwasher, etc.) until the cooler hours of the day or night.
  • Use dampers on the ductwork to balance the airflow in your home (i.e. if one room is colder/warmer than another). Closing registers should be a last resort if dampers are not available.
  • Close curtains, blinds and/or shades to direct sunlight to prevent the room from warming up. White-backed curtains are recommended.
  • Visit OPPD.com/ee for more energy conservation information and guidance, including videos showing projects to improve your home’s energy efficiency, an energy-savings calculator, room by room strategies, and more.

WEA_Heat Stroke Signs

About Jason Kuiper

Jason Kuiper joined OPPD as a communications specialist in 2015. He formerly worked as a staff writer and reporter at the Omaha World-Herald.