Duquesne Light Company Urging Customers to Prepare for Extreme Heat
Prolonged high temperatures can increase stress on the electric grid, potentially resulting in power outages
PITTSBURGH — Experts are forecasting extreme heat for the Pittsburgh region beginning today, Monday, June 29, through at least Friday, July 3. With temperatures expected to rise into the mid-90s with a heat index of more than 100 degrees, Duquesne Light Company (DLC) is urging customers to take steps now to prepare for both the heat and the possibility of power outages. Even in the absence of severe storms, prolonged high temperatures can strain the electric grid and lead to potential service interruptions.
In response to this forecast, DLC is increasing staffing to ensure that any outages are safely restored as quickly as possible.
Important Reminders
Customers can follow these steps to stay safe and cool:
- Ensure that cell phones and other necessary electronics are fully charged.
- Drink plenty of water and have ice handy to use for cooling packs.
- Keep supplies in an emergency preparedness kit, including water bottles, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights and a battery-powered radio.
- Sign up for outage notifications through your DLC account.
In the event of an outage:
- Avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors. Food will stay frozen in a fully loaded freezer for 36-48 hours if the door remains closed.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Avoid using candles or other potential fire hazards.
- Seek a location with air conditioning when possible. To help combat the heat, the city of Pittsburgh is opening five cooling centers from Monday, June 29, through Thursday, July 2. For residents outside of city limits, reach out to your local municipality for up-to-date information on nearby cooling centers.
Customers should always call 9-1-1 for any emergency medical issues that could be impacted by an outage. Because of the intense heat that is forecasted, DLC also advises checking on elderly family members, friends and neighbors who live alone.
Reporting Outages
Any customers who experience an outage can report it on DuquesneLight.com or through the company’s free mobile app. Those without internet access can report an outage by calling 888-393-7100.