Be Prepared for Extreme Heat 

Use Ventilation and Shading to Help Control Indoor Temperatures 

Summer is here! That also means that extreme heat is on the way. Using fans and home cooling systems are effective ways to keep cool in summer months, but did you know that you can also use ventilation and shading to cool your home?

Control indoor temperatures and conserve energy during extreme heat by:

• Covering windows that receive morning and afternoon sun with shades to help limit a rise in indoor temperatures.
• Using drapes, shades, roller shades, awnings, or louvers to cover your windows. Outdoor awnings and louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home more than indoor shades.
• Closing the windows if the air outside is hotter than the air inside. If the air outside is cooler, open the shades or drapes, and the windows. 

Although keeping windows and doors closed may help maintain temperatures, in some cases you may need to open the windows slightly to maintain adequate ventilation, especially while cooking and during other activities that may reduce air quality indoors.

Learn more about how ventilation and shading can help control indoor temperatures and other actions you can take to protect indoor air quality during extreme heat.

If the power goes out...

If you lose power during an extreme heat event, remember to use the strategies above to help control indoor air temperatures when air conditioning or fans are not available.

If you need temporary power, NEVER use a fuel-powered portable generator inside your home, garage, shed, or similar enclosed areas. Fuel-powered generators should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet from homes - generator exhaust contains deadly carbon monoxide. 

Learn more about how to safely provide power during a power outage.