Summer Energy Conservation Methods

Continuous use of electricity puts a strain on the power gird and increases the chance of outages. To help conserve energy this summer, the Village of Rockville Centre recommends the following energy conservation tips for local residents:

Close blinds, curtains to keep direct sunlight out

Use fans to circulate air rather than lowering the thermostat

Limit AC use to only occupied rooms

Turn lights off when not needed

Reduce electricity use during peak hours of 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. including electric dryers, ovens, dishwashers and pool pumps

Charge electric vehicles during off peak hours, before noon and after 8 p.m.

Nassau may soon be able to text “911”

Nassau County residents may soon be able to text “911” in emergency situations.

Nassau County Legislator DeliaDeRiggi-Whitton introduced legislation which would make it possible for residents to text 911 in emergency situations.

Currently, the only way for Nassau residents to reach “911”is by a phone call. Under DeRiggi-Whitton’s proposal, Nassau County would develop and implement around-the-clock text-to-911 capabilities for the first time — a feature that could be utilized by people who are Deaf or hard of hearing; have limited English proficiency; or need to reach authorities discreetly, such as in an active shooter, hostage, or domestic vio- lence crisis. Anyone who misuses text the feature would be subject to the same penalties as those who misuse 911 by phone.

Implementation of the program would be overseen by the Commissioner of the Nassau County Police Department and the Nassau County Fire Marshal, with feedback and guidance from disability rights advocates including but not limited to the Nassau County Disability Advisory Council.

Text to “911” is already live in numerous New York counties, including Suffolk. Separately, Nassau County must implement a program by Sept. 15, 2023 under the terms of a May 2023 settlement in a case alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.