The Imperial Irrigation District is asking customers to be energy conscience during the current heat wave.

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the Imperial Valley and most of Southern California and the IID says that , while the District has been able to meet customer energy demand , they would like to encourage customers to take some energy saving measures during this time so the District can keep costs down and maintain the reliability of the electric grid. Marilyn del Bosque Gilbert said , " With the increase in temperatures in our service area , we expect additional strain on the electrical grid."

The IID says you can help by:

   * Set thermostats at 78 degrees or higher when you are home.

   * Use floor or ceiling fans to cool off for less. Be sure to turn off fans when you leave a room as they only cool people not spaces.

   * Turn off all unneeded lights.

   * Avoid using major appliances like washers , dryers , and dishwashers between peak hours of 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

   * Block the sun from overheating your home.

The Excessive Heat Warning is in effect until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening with temperatures reaching as high as 119 degrees. California ISO has issued a Flex Alert for energy conservation for most of California.