Customer Newsletter, November 2007

Complete Newsletter Edition

Make the Change of Season Safely
As the leaves change to their beautiful autumn hues and the weather gets colder, keep in mind the following electrical safety tips for the change of season:
  • Make sure space heaters are in good repair and certified by an independent testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Also check that power cords are not frayed, cracked or cut.
  • Do not use an extension cord to power a space heater. Plug directly into the electrical outlet. Make sure the circuit can handle the power demands of the space heater and any other appliances plugged into it.
  • Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials such as curtains,draperies, loose paper and upholstery. Keep space heaters out of reach from small children and pets. Never use heaters as drying racks.
  • Space heaters should have an automatic shut-off in the event they tip over.
  • If the heater is running on fuels such as gas, kerosene or wood, follow manufacturer's instructions carefully. Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed. Keep chimneys and flues free from corrosion or blockages.
  • Check to see if electric blankets are in good repair and certified by an independent testing lab like UL. Do not tuck your electric blanket under the mattress and don't put anything on top of the blanket. Do not allow pets to sleep on electric blankets.
  • Check cold weather tools, like leaf and snow blowers, to ensure power cords are in good repair. Extension cords need to be approved for outdoor use.
  • Use only weatherproof outdoor electrical appliances for outdoor activities.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International


Other stories inside this edition:
  • Developing Issue: Climate Change Legislation
    In the past year, we feel that the political environment has moved to one which embraces climate change. More>>>
  • Prepare Your Home for Winter
    • Don't let your hard-earned money blow away through drafty doors and windows... More>>>
  • All Aboard! On the ENERGY STAR Change A Light Pledge
    • For the 2007-2007 ENERGY STAR Change A Light Pledge program, a total of 156 people have pledged to do their part to change one incandescent bulb to a compact fluorescent lamp...More>>>
  • Switch & Save Campaign Is Underway!
    • Thursday, November 1, Nebraska Public Power District and its wholesale customer utilities, including Southern Power District, kicked off a campaign to encourage energy efficiency... More>>>