Power down and keep cool this summer
Those hot summer days are just around the corner! Use these tips to stay cool,
while keeping Western’s power draw and carbon emissions to a minimum.
Dress appropriately. Wear light weight clothing, taking into account required safety concerns
in your work area. Consult with your supervisor when in doubt about acceptable attire.
Hydrate! Drink water frequently throughout the day. Drink enough water so you never become thirsty.
Drape a moist towel or cloth around your neck.
Open a window if you can. Close the window at end of day for security and in case it rains.
Take a break. Taking a break outside is a great way to catch a breeze, cool off, and appreciate the
benefits of the sunshine, or take a break in an air conditioned space, such as Haggard Hall Library
and Skybridge, or the Viking Union.
Unplug equipment when it is not in use. Computers and appliances add heat to the room, even in
stand-by mode.
Turn lights off when you leave a room. Especially when you leave to go home at the end of the day.
Close the blinds to block direct sun and keep them closed when you leave for the day.
Place a small fan where you can feel it. This provides more comfort for the electricity consumption.
Turn off your fan when you leave the room—fans cool people by circulating air, but don’t reduce the
temperature in a room.
Resources
If you feel that your space is excessively warm, please contact Facilities Customer Service @ 650-3420.
FM staff work with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) to assess room temperatur
for the procedure on initiating a report on warm work spaces.
If you would like EHS to hold a short Heat Stress training for your department, please call 650-3064
or email John Kingsford-Smith at John.Kingsford-Smith@wwu.edu.
For more information on Heat-Related Illness, of Western’s Safety Information Book.
For general information on staying cool when it’s hot this .
Choose a high efficiency fan. Check the label or features. The manufacturer will show the air movement
for electricity used. Look for the EPA’s Energy Star certified fans.