CHICO — It looks like summer is coming out swinging this year with temperatures expected to be well into the triple digits just in time for graduation season.
PG&E is preparing for the coming heat wave this week by offering tips for customers and warning about the risks of losing metallic balloons outdoors. These balloons are typically seen at birthday parties as well as commencement ceremonies. Those in the audience have likely seen at least one balloon take off into the sky.
Joe Wilson, PG&E’s vice president of the North Valley and Sierra Region, said the primary danger is when these balloons find power lines.
“Once they float up into electric lines, they can end up shorting the lines and can cause explosions,” Wilson said. “It can take out the power for an extended period of time.”
Wilson said one of the best ways to avoid losing balloons is to make sure they are tied to a heavy enough weight to keep them grounded and to make sure they are secured.
PG&E Spokesman Paul Moreno added that, when done with them, balloons should be deflated before disposed of to avoid losing control of them.
“Be sure to dispose of them properly and cut them so they don’t drift away,” Moreno said.
Heath wave
Chico is looking to be as hot as 106 degrees on Wednesday and could remain above 100, or at least the upper 90s, for the remainder of the week.
Wilson said PG&E is ready for the heat.
“We’re well prepared for this upcoming heat wave,” Wilson said. “Our systems have been resilient. There are no real concerns in terms of load or the amount of energy that we need to be able to supply our customers. But it’s always a good thing, if you want to lower your bills, to lower your usage.”
Wilson suggested that customers utilize the cooler morning air by opening up the house or apartment and using fans to bring that cool morning air in. He added that he keeps his air conditioner set at 78 degrees, but turns it off at about midday.
Another way to keep the power and heat down indoors is to use outdoor barbecues to cook, Wilson said.
For heat safety, Wilson advised people to stay hydrated and keep water on hand. Additionally, its better to start early on outdoor activities and end early before the hottest parts of the day.
Related Articles
100 degrees: Extreme heat forecast this week
Supervisors talk potential Five-Mile sediment removal
Winds, hot temps coming to north state
League of Women Voters to host weather presentation
Solar eclipses are so last month. Get ready for a ‘planetary parade’
+ There are no comments
Add yours