With elevated fire conditions and increasing temperatures, we're encouraging customers to keep safety top of mind when trying to beat the heat. According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning was extended through 5 p.m. on Tuesday for residents in San Diego County mountain and western valley regions. A heat advisory is also in effect from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, in coastal areas and the western valleys.

Due to the extreme heat, we are sharing tips to help keep you cool and safe, as well as conserve energy, throughout the week: 

• Use a ceiling or portable fan instead of your air conditioner, health permitting. 
• Block heat from the sun. During the hot hours of the day, cover windows to block the sun’s heat. Opening windows in the evening can help your home cool back down.
• Keep track of your energy use and costs with email or text alerts. Visit sdge.com/myaccount to stay on top of your bill, energy use and more by clicking on "alerts and subscriptions."
• Run major appliances, such as your washers and dryers, early in the morning or late at night to avoid peak energy use timeframes. 
• Visit a Cool Zone. 
• Turn down your water heater by a few degrees. Many water heaters are set higher than the temperature we actually use. Reducing this by a few degrees can reduce your energy costs.
• Use air conditioners safely. Avoid plugging air conditioners into extension cords or power strips. Always keep the area around your air conditioning unit clear of anything that could easily catch fire.

Along with the extreme heat, our region is experiencing elevated fire danger – especially in the backcountry. Everyone is urged to do their part to avoid the following outdoor activities that could spark fires:

• Mowing or trimming vegetation using power tools, because they can spark on a rock and start a  fire
• Starting camp fires in forests
• Pulling over a vehicle in brush (If necessary, pull over on paved roads)
• Setting a piece of hot garden equipment in dry brush
• Performing electrical work
• Using outdoor equipment, such as blow torches, grinding and cutting tools
• Outdoor grilling
• Driving off-road vehicles
• Shooting firearms
• Burning plant cuttings.

We’re committed to helping our customers stay safe and informed throughout the year. For more information on summer safety, efficiency tips and available programs to help with your summer energy costs, visit sdge.com/summer. For more information on wildfire safety and preparedness, visit sdge.com/wildfire-safety.