Flex Yer Power Today ('Cause We'll Cry if Our Air Conditioner Shuts Down)

The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) has issued a "Flex Alert" for today (July 5). Now CAISO manages the electricity grid in California, and they're trying to avoid potential electricity outages, especially during peak demand (4 pm).

So you know how hot it is outside -- or rather how hot it's going to be in like an hour? Now imagine what would happen if we lost power...so try to do your part because every little bit helps. Here's what CAISO asks us to do on Flex Alert days at home and in the office:

1. Turn off all unnecessary lights, computers and appliances.
2. Postpone using major appliances until after 7 p.m.
3. Turn your air conditioning thermostat to 78° F or higher.

Easy, right? So let's try and hold off those rolling blackouts today...

AP Photo by Ahn Young-joon