We are experiencing a historic heat wave that is forecast to impact our area and the rest of the state through tomorrow. As a result, California's electricity grid operator may call for more rolling blackouts in both San Mateo and San Francisco Counties.

Here are several steps that each of us can take to stay as cool as possible and reduce our electricity use to help limit the need for rolling blackouts. Most of us do not have air conditioning, so to help keep your home cool:

• Open windows in the evening and at night, when safe, to cool your home.
• Close windows and close shades, or cover your windows, before the day heats up to prevent cool air from escaping and to keep warm air out.
• Try not to use major appliances like your oven, dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer. These appliances all give off heat when used. If we can avoid using them for a few days, we can keep our homes cooler. If necessary, run them in the early morning.
• Turn off unnecessary lights.

To help reduce the need for more rolling blackouts:

• Avoid using major appliances during peak energy-use hours from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full.
• If you have air conditioning, run it overnight at 72° and in the morning to pre-cool your home. From 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., make sure to set it to no lower than 78°.
• If you have an electric water heater, turn it down to 120° or the "normal" setting. Water heating accounts for about 13 percent of home electricity costs.
• Unplug phone chargers, power strips (those without a switch) and other equipment when not in use.

COVID-19 Testing:

If you are experiencing symptoms of possible COVID-19 infection or you are an essential worker, don't hesitate to get tested. If you have health insurance, contact your primary care provider first to schedule a test. Additionally, pop-up testing is now available in the southern neighborhoods of San Francisco and in Daly City.

Remember, we are all in this together. Stay at home if you can. Wear a mask. If you need help with unemployment benefits or another state agency, call my District Office at 415-557-2312.

Sincerely,