Due to the high temperatures forecast for Friday, Orange & Rockland Utilities declared a heat watch for Friday.



When O&R declares a heat watch, electric distribution system engineers closely monitor key systems for heat-related issues and field crews are kept ready to respond quickly to problems with electrical systems.



The National Weather Service is predicting a high temperature of 92 degrees in Nanuet on Friday, which would lead to higher demands for electricity due to increased use of air conditioning. Customers should call O&R at 1-877-434-411 if there is a problem with their electrical service.



For more on O&R's preparation for high temperatures, read this report on Patch.



O&R offered the following tips for conserving energy in high temperatures:



• Install a timer or clock thermostat on your air conditioner so you can program it to operate and shut-off at pre-determined hours. That saves you from running it all day so you return at day's end to a cool house.

• Set the thermostat of your central air conditioner at 78 degrees F or higher to achieve maximum savings on your cooling costs. Setting the room temperature on the air conditioner at 75 degrees costs about 15 percent more. A 72-degree setting costs about 30 percent more than the 78-degree setting.

• Plan cooking, baking or other household activities that produce heat and humidity for the cooler times of the day and night. Use a portable or ceiling fan to circulate the pre-cooled air in your air conditioned home. A fan uses about 90 percent less energy than an air conditioner.

• In very humid weather, adjust your air conditioner's fan to a low setting. It'll take longer for the air conditioner to cool your home, but your unit will bring in steamy air at a slower rate and make you feel more comfortable.

• As the sun moves from east to west during the day, pull your curtains and shades on windows to block out the heat.

• Maintain a constant temperature in the refrigerator of between 36 and 38 degrees for maximum effectiveness. The freezer should be kept at 15 degrees. Cover liquid items. They give off humidity that forces the refrigerator to use more energy. Place the most used items in one place so that the door will be open for a shorter period of time.