WADENA, Minn.– High temperatures continue across the listening area as the official start of summer begins.

Todd-Wadena Electrical Cooperative (TWEC) is offering some tips and advice on how to stay cool at home without running up your electric bill.

“These times when people in our community are using more electricity all at once, in this instance to stay cool, are called ‘peak hours,'” said Allison Uselman, Member & Energy Services Manager. “The cost to provide power ends up being due to the increased demand. By conserving energy use during this period of high temperatures, you’ll not only be saving yourself money, but you’ll be helping maintain the reliability of our regional electric grid by reducing stress on it.”

Some tips Uselman gives to save energy include:

• Adjust your thermostat by raising it a few degrees during that day
• Use ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect that will make the air feel cooler to the skin
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes or shades
• Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible
• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use
• Run large appliances at night (dishwashers, laundry machines etc.)

Most importantly, officials encourage every to drink plenty of water to help keep their bodies cool.