June 4, 2004

ROSEMEAD, Calif., June 4, 2004— Southern California Edison (SCE) is joining the American Red Cross and the Congress of California Seniors to urge SCE customers to stay comfortable, cool and healthy during the hot summer months ahead.

“At SCE, we understand that the summer time can be uncomfortable for our customers living in hot, dry climates.  This is especially true for infants, young children, seniors, and those with chronic medical conditions,” said Suzanne Middelburg, SCE’s manager of Consumer Affairs.  “That’s why we have heat safety tips at SCE’s Web site, www.sce.com/summer, to help keep our customers cool and comfortable while managing their electric costs.” 

SCE’s Web site includes information on:

  • Rebates for qualifying energy-efficient products, such as programmable thermostats, pool pumps and ducted evaporative coolers.
  • Keeping thermostats set to 78 degrees, a simple way to stay cool and keep energy costs down.
  • The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which provides a 20% discount on electric rates for income-qualified customers.
  • The Medical Baseline program, which allows additional electric usage, charged at the lowest rate, if someone in the household has a medical condition that requires the use of electrically powered equipment or has a qualifying illness. A doctor’s certification is required.

“The American Red Cross supports SCE’s efforts to prevent heat-related illnesses and help its customers manage their electric bills,” said Dereck Andrade, the organization’s public affairs state lead.  “Together, we are helping residents in Southern California stay cool, comfortable and healthy.” 

Tips for preventing heat-related illnesses are available on the Red Cross Web site, www.redcross.org/services/hss/tips/heat.html, and include:

  • Wear a hat and light-weight, light-colored clothing on hot, sunny days
  • Drink water or other non-caffeine, non-alcoholic beverages
  • Eat small meals
  • Slow down and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest time of day
  • Take regular breaks from physical activity
  • Stay indoors whenever possible 

“Hot weather can stress seniors’ strength and budget,” according to Hank Lacayo, president of the Congress of California Seniors.  “We’re encouraging seniors to stay healthy on hot days by keeping hydrated and cool.”

For more information on SCE’s programs and services, please call (800) 655-4555.

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An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of more than 12 million via 4.6 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within central, coastal and Southern California.