But the group of utilities and government officials warned that more such alerts were likely as winter continues. Also residents are encouraged to use less hot water and avoid running dishwashers and washing machines during peak times between 6 and 9 a.m. and 5 and 8 p.m. Monday, Gov. Gary Locke ordered state agencies to trim their power use by 5 percent to 10 percent and turned off the lights in the Capitol dome and the Christmas lights around the Capitol lawn. Judging from the festive displays around the Mid-Columbia in the evening, some folks here just aren't willing to go cold turkey and give up their Christmas light displays. But they can at least exercise a sensible approach to their use. That includes not turning the lights on until after peak power use diminishes around 8 p.m., then making sure to turn them off at a reasonable hour so they don't shine through the night.
Stores sell timers that can be set to turn lights on and off.
Another alternative to putting up your own light display is to enjoy others. Some neighborhoods, including Christmas Carol Lane off of Kennewick's Garfield Avenue hill, have become renowned for their festive gift to passers-by. And Saturday, Pasco's Desert Plateau neighborhoods will stage its annual luminaria display. The event begins at 6 p.m. Tours of Christmas lights have become as much a tradition as a trip to see Santa for some families. But for those putting on the displays, some restraint is in order as the region enters a winter with a power supply that is more precarious than any in memory.