​Company Offers Ways to Beat the Heat - Keeping Customers Safe and Cool in Hot Weather

CHICAGO (July 20, 2016) – Chicago is bracing for some of the highest temperatures since 2013, and ComEd is taking proactive steps to prepare for the excessive heat conditions. The company is closely monitoring forecasts and has additional staffing in place to ensure it's ready to respond to customers and any potential power issues.

"Increased heat conditions can sometimes produce severe weather, even without significant warning. We developed a plan and are prepared to have the necessary resources available to safely and quickly respond in the event that there any power issues that impact our customers, said Terence R. Donnelly, executive vice president and chief operating officer, ComEd. "

To help customers beat the heat, ComEd is offering the following safety and energy efficiency tips:

• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water.
• Relax in cooler areas of the house, such as a basement.
• Visit a public, air-conditioned facility, such as designated cooling center or library.
• Reduce additional heat and moisture by running appliances such as ovens, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers during cooler periods like early morning or evening.
• Program your thermostat ten degrees higher when you leave your home and before going to sleep. You could save up to 15% a year on cooling costs.
• Keep shades, blinds and curtains closed to avoid taking in 40 percent of unwanted heat.
• Turn off all unnecessary lighting and appliances to avoid additional heat in your home.
• Keep doors firmly closed to the outside, garage or attic to keep cool air in and hot air out.
• Use fans to evenly distribute cool air and reduce usage of the air conditioner.
• Remember to check on elderly or disabled neighbors and friends.

ComEd will keep customers informed and remain in contact with community leaders to address any potential power-related issues. In case of a power outage, customers are encouraged to immediately contact ComEd. Customers can text OUT to 26633 (COMED) to report their outage and receive restoration information, and can follow the company on Twitter @ComEd or on Facebook at Facebook.com/ComEd to stay up to date on the latest ComEd power information. Customers can also call 1-800 EDISON1 (1- 800-334-7661), or report it through the web site at ComEd.com. Spanish-speaking customers should call 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237).

While ComEd's energy supply costs have decreased this summer, the high heat this week means customers may use more energy. For more ways to save energy visit the ComEd Smart Ideas Energy Efficiency Program website at ComEd.com/HomeSavings. ComEd also offers a variety of financial assistance programs for eligible customers who may need help with their energy bills. Please visit www.ComEdCARE.com for more information about available programs.