It’s September, and that means cooler mornings, harvest equipment in the fields, and kids settling into their school routines. It’s a busy time for our members, whether you’re out on the farm or getting the family back on schedule at home. As we stay busy, we should strive to stay safe around electricity and make the most of our energy use as we ease into fall. 

For our farming folks, harvest season means long days with big machinery, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on those overhead power lines. Always look up before moving equipment like combines or augers, keeping a good buffer between equipment and power lines to avoid any contact. If something does snag a line, remember to stay put in the cab and give us a call right away at 618-662-2171. You should not attempt to exit the equipment unless a serious threat to your health and safety, like a fire, forces you to. Then hop from the equipment and land with your feet together and continue to hop, or shuffle step, away. Electricity flows into the ground like a ripple on a pond, and if you take big steps, you could become the path electricity takes from one ripple to another. Be mindful of your surroundings and always strive to keep safety at the forefront of your mind. 

As the days shorten, we’re all relying more on lights and outlets outdoors, so take a moment to inspect those extension cords and fixtures for any fraying or damage. With the damp fall weather creeping in, using weatherproof covers and GFCI outlets can make a world of difference in avoiding shocks. And, speaking of weather, now’s the perfect time to weatherize your home — sealing up drafts around windows and doors with some caulk or stripping keeps the warmth in without overworking your heater, which can really add to your energy savings.

Inside, as families adjust to school nights, it’s easy for lights and gadgets to stay on longer than needed. Encourage the kids to flip switches off when they leave a room. If you’re dusting off portable heaters for those chilly starts to the day, place them on steady surfaces away from anything flammable, and go for ones with auto-shutoff features. Pair that with a quick tune-up on your furnace or heat pump, including fresh filters, and you’ll notice better efficiency right away!

By weaving these practices into our daily lives, we’re not just saving a few dollars; we’re helping ensure our cooperative’s grid stays reliable for everyone. 

Thank you for being a valued member of our cooperative. Be sure to keep an eye out for your member number in the center section of this magazine. There are three member numbers hidden within the pages of Clay Electric News. If you spot your number and give us a call, you will win a $5 discount on your next bill!