APS serves about 1.4 million homes and businesses in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties, and is a leader in delivering reliable, affordable and clean energy in the Southwest. With one of the country’s most substantial renewable energy portfolios and as owner and operator of the nuclear power plant Palo Verde Generating Station, APS’s energy mix is 54% clean. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).
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Celebrate with Stars, Stripes and Safety: Tips from APS for the Fourth of July
Take simple steps to beat the summer heat and prevent accidents outdoors
As you gear up for Independence Day celebrations this week, Arizona Public Service (APS) encourages everyone to take proper precautions to stay healthy in the heat and to be safe around electricity during backyard fun.
Stay healthy in the heat
Extreme temperatures are part of Arizona summers. When heading outside, take these actions to protect yourself and your family:
- Stay hydrated. Drink water even when not thirsty. If you are thirsty and/or sweating, you are closer to dehydration than you might realize.
- Check your backseat before you leave your vehicle. Do not leave children or pets inside. The heat builds up quickly and it can kill.
- Check on vulnerable family members or friends, such as elderly individuals or people with medical conditions.
- Seek out shade, use sunscreen and stay out of the direct sun as much as possible. Wear light-colored clothing and cover your head.
- Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS) offers more information on the warning signs of heat illness.
- Know the cooling centers in your community and go to one as needed.
For more ways to prepare, visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network (AzEIN) at ein.az.gov/extreme-heat.
Be safe near electricity
Summer activities may mean you cool off in swimming pools and spend some time outdoors. Practice these electrical safety tips:
- Electricity and water don’t mix. Never handle electronic devices, such as speakers or phone chargers, while wet and don’t place them near pools where they can get splashed. Be aware ofpower lines when using long-handled pool cleaning tools. Know where electrical switches and breakers for pool equipment and lights are located and how to switch them off in an emergency.
- Keep outdoor lighting away from water. Ensure a safe vertical clearance over the water surface in a pool for popular backyard décor like string lights. When installing lighting, only use your ladder on level ground and don’t use the top rung.
- Check your extension cords and plugs. Overloaded cords can lead to electric shock and serious injury. For outdoor purposes, use only weather-resistant, heavy-gauge extension cords specifically marked for that use.
- Keep items away from power lines. Before a storm rolls in, store pool toys and tie down umbrellas, trampolines and patio furniture so wind doesn’t blow them into power lines, causing unnecessary damage and power outages. Neverfly drones, kites or other aerial toys near power lines. If you come across downed power lines, stay at least 100 feet away, call 911 and then call APS.
- Be careful with balloons. Deflate and properly dispose of balloons in the trash. The metallic coating on Mylar balloons can damage power lines and knock out power to homes and businesses.
APS customers can plan their summer celebrations with savings in mind. Those on Time-of-Use 4pm-7pm Weekdays or Time-of-Use 4pm-7pm Weekdays with Demand Charge rate plans can enjoy lower-priced rates the full 24 hours of the day on off-peak holidays – including Independence Day and Labor Day. Learn more about your rate plan options at aps.com/plans.
For more ways to stay safe around electricity and tips to save money on your energy bill, visit aps.com/safety and aps.com/save.
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