The Oklahoma Corporation Commission is urging Oklahomans to take simple steps which can help reduce the strain on the state's electrical power grid during the great 2011 heatwave. "The record heatwave has caused a record demand for electricity," Commission Chair Dana Murphy told KTOK. "There are some fairly simple steps we can all take to help ease the strain and save on electric costs at the same time," Murphy said. Commissioner Jeff Cloud said reducing electrical usage can help ensure the system can meet everyone's needs. "Just as cars fall victim to the weather and demand, so too can electric generation units and the other items that make up our electric infrastructure. Commissioner Bob Anthony said while Oklahoma is better positioned today to handle unanticipated demand or outages, it's always a good idea to conserve. Some tips include adjusting the thermostat to a higher temperature to reduce air conditioning demand when a home isn't occupied, and washing clothes and running diswashers at night when demand for power isn't as high.