|
DENVER – Coloradans over-heated by hot summer weather should take
extra precautions to stay safe and look out for their neighbors, says
Energy Outreach Colorado.
“Extremely hot temperatures are challenging for most of us, but they’re
actually dangerous for seniors, families with children and people with
special needs who may not have the resources to cool their home or the
ability to escape the heat by going to an air-conditioned shopping mall
or a swimming pool,” said Skip Arnold, executive director for Energy
Outreach, a statewide non-profit agency that raises money for low-income
energy assistance.
“We urge everyone to think about these folks in their neighborhoods and
communities who may be isolated and suffering through this summer heat
spell, and make sure they are getting the help they need to stay healthy
and comfortable,” he added.
In particular, income-limited households that need help paying their
home energy bills can apply for assistance from Energy Outreach Colorado
by calling toll-free 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) or going to
www.EnergyOutreach.org.
For immediate help, Energy Outreach Colorado offers these simple home
cooling tips:
-
Windows can be the largest source of heat gain in your home. Keep
windows and window coverings shut during the day, then open them at
night to let in cooling breezes.
-
Avoid running fans in open windows when temperatures outside are
hotter than inside. This will increase the temperature in the home
rather than cooling it down. Also, running fans for an extended time
near curtains can present a fire danger.
-
Because dishwashers and washing machines generate heat when they’re
operating, run them only in the evening when temperatures have
cooled off. Turn off the heated drying option on your dishwasher to
save energy and keep your kitchen cooler.
-
Incandescent light bulbs release about 90 percent of the energy they
use in the form of heat. Replacing them with compact fluorescent
light bulbs (CFLs) will reduce heat and save money because they’re
more energy efficient and last seven to ten times longer than an
incandescent bulb.
Energy Outreach Colorado is the only statewide source for energy
assistance during the summer months and distributes funding through a
network of 100 assistance organizations including Salvation Army,
Catholic Charities and Seniors, Inc. This year, Energy Outreach plans to
distribute $6.15 million in energy assistance funding through Sept. 30.
About Energy Outreach Colorado
Energy Outreach Colorado is the only independent, non-profit
organization in the state that raises money to help income-limited
Coloradans afford home energy. Since 1989, EOC has distributed more than
$78 million to fund energy bill payment assistance, energy efficiency
upgrades for affordable housing and energy efficiency education. Energy
Outreach Colorado relies on private donations, corporate contributions
and foundation grants. It was named 2006 Outstanding Foundation by
National Philanthropy Day in Colorado, has received top ratings from
Charity Navigator for five consecutive years and is a member of the
Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance. Energy Outreach Colorado,
www.EnergyOutreach.org, can
be reached at 303-825-8750 or at 225 E. 16th Ave. Ste. 200, Denver, CO
80203-1612. |
