July 1, 2018
RE: Heat Wave

Dear Resident,

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory until 8pm Monday. High temperatures mean a greater demand for electricity and an increased possibility for heat related illnesses. With that in mind, I ask that you review the following information.

The combination of heat and high humidity can lead to heat related illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, limit exposure during the heat of the day and know the signs of heat related illness. Learn more from the CDC. The heat can be dangerous for our pets, as well; the Red Cross provides information on prevention and recognizing symptoms.

Increased electrical demands can bring power outages. JCP&L suggests the following tips to use energy wisely:

•Set thermostats as high as comfort will allow. Every degree a customer can increase the temperature in their home will result in using about 3 percent less energy during the hottest summer days.
•During sunny weather, close drapes or blinds on windows facing the sun to prevent direct radiant heating from impacting interior temperatures.
•Use fans – moving air cools skin faster, resulting in greater comfort on hot days.
•Use a programmable thermostat to keep temperatures higher when no one is home, and to reduce the temperature before arrival back home.
•Only operate window air conditioners when someone is in the room.
•Keep refrigerators and freezers as full as possible. Frozen or cold items in the refrigerator help keep other items cool, reducing the amount of work the refrigerator has to do to maintain a lower temperature.
•Close rooms that aren't used regularly during the summer, and close the air conditioning vents in those rooms, as well.
•Avoid using heat-producing appliances during the hottest hours of the day. The less heat produced at home, the less work the air conditioner will do.
•Consider investing in ENERGY STAR® appliances or heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. FirstEnergy's utilities may offer rebates on these purchases and tax deductions may apply, as well.
•Check air conditioner and furnace fan filters. Clogged filters waste energy and money by forcing HVAC systems to work harder than necessary.

We remind you that you that should summer storms cause downed wires always assume that they are live and dangerous. Avoid the area and immediately the Police at 732-536-0100. Power outages should be reported to JCP&L by calling 888-LIGHTSS or using one of their many other methods of reporting.
Please take a moment and check on neighbors that may be older or vulnerable. The Marlboro Police are available 24/7 and can be reached by calling 732-536-0100. In case of emergencies, dial 911. Please take precautions and stay safe. 

Yours in community,
Mayor Jon Hornik