Posted on February 16, 2021
The City of Overland Park is doing its part to prevent unplanned energy outages during the extreme cold temperatures this week.
The Governor’s State of Emergency proclamation for extreme cold temperatures requests Kansans take steps to conserve both electric and gas power.
The City’s Facilities Management Division is lowering temperatures at all City facilities to 60 degrees.
This includes public spaces such as Matt Ross Community Center, where visitors and members may notice lower-than-usual indoor temperatures.
Staff have been instructed to stop using space heaters and may wear outer layers inside to complete work tasks.
City facilities, along with much of Overland Park, has experienced rolling blackouts this week.
Power companies are implementing the measure in an effort to conserve energy and reduce the likelihood of unplanned outages in the future.
Overland Park residents can do their part to prevent future outages as well, including:
- Lowering thermostat temperatures and wearing additional layers of clothing at home.
- Sealing leaks around doors and windows.
- Closing blinds and curtains.
- Reducing the temperatures on your water heater.
- Avoiding using common appliances during the cold snap. Washers, dryers and dishwashers consume natural gas and electric. If possible, wait until the extreme cold passes to complete chores.