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Your Cooperative. Your Power. Your Connection. Valentine’s Day is all about connection—sharing warmth, light, and love with the people who matter most. But have you ever thought about what makes those moments possible? Reliable energy is the unsung hero behind every cozy dinner, heartfelt playlist, and glowing string of lights. From the first cup of coffee that starts your day to the late-night movie that ends it, electricity powers the experiences you cherish. It keeps your home comfortable, your devices charged, and your life moving—quietly working in the background so you can focus on what truly matters. At your electric cooperative, we believe love and energy go hand in hand. Just as a strong relationship depends on trust, commitment, and care, reliable energy does too. That’s why we invest in resilient systems, innovative technology, and dedicated teams to ensure your power is there when you need it most. Because when the lights come on, life feels brighter—and love shines even stronger. Connect with us to learn about programs designed for our members. From energy-efficiency rebates and tips to lower your monthly bill to initiatives that support youth, community engagement, and economic development, your co-op is here to help you thrive. These programs aren’t just perks—they’re part of the cooperative difference, ensuring that your membership powers more than your home; it powers opportunity and growth for the entire community. This Valentine’s Day, as you celebrate the people who power your heart, take a moment to appreciate the energy that powers your world. After all, watts love got to do with it? Everything that powers YOU! Your Cooperative. Your Power. Your Connection.

Don't know your amps from an electrical ground? Like many fields of knowledge, the electric power industry is full of terms and acronyms that can be difficult for non-experts to understand. If you’re looking to gain a better understanding of electrical terminology, this guide to electric system lingo can help power your industry knowledge. Amperage (amps) . The amount of electrical current flowing through a circuit, or the maximum amount of current that a circuit can safely handle. Circuit . A path for transmitting electric current. Every circuit includes a power source (generator), an energy-using device (such as lights or motors), and a connecting wire or power line. Current . The flow of electric charge through a circuit. Direct-current (DC) moves continuously in one direction. Alternating current (AC) changes direction 60 times per second. Demand . Demand is the amount of power a home or business is using at any given time. A 10 kW (10,000-watt) motor draws 10,000 watts of power at any given time while it’s running at full speed. Distribution . The final stage of the delivery of power. A distribution system includes substations, power lines, transformers, and other equipment that deliver to consumers at the proper voltage. (Our cooperative is an electric distribution cooperative!) Generation . Electricity is created by a generator, a device that converts some form of energy into electricity. Utility-scale generators utilize fossil fuels, hydropower, solar energy, wind energy, and nuclear reactions. Grid . A network of power plants, substations, transformers, power lines, and other equipment that delivers electricity from the source of generation to consumers. Ground . A common return path for electric current in a circuit. Exposed conductive parts of electrical equipment are connected to ground to protect users from potential shock hazard. Kilowatt (kW) . A kilowatt is equal to 1,000 watts of power and is a measure of the rate of electricity generation or consumption. Kilowatt-hour (kWh) . A measure of the amount of electricity a device uses when it’s running. If a device uses 1,000 watts over an hour, that’s a kilowatt-hour. Phase . The distribution of an electrical load in a circuit. Single-phase circuits have one power wire and one neutral wire. Three-phase circuits have three power wires carrying the load. Because voltage peaks and dips in a cycle, single-phase power supply isn’t consistent. Three-phase circuits separate the peaks and dips, delivering power at a constant rate. Power factor . The difference between real power (what electric devices use to operate) and apparent power (additional magnetic power required by some devices). Expressed between 0 and 1, a low power factor indicates that more apparent power is being used. Smart grid . A set of advanced technologies — such as smart meters, sensors, microgrids, and energy storage — designed to improve grid connectivity, efficiency, and reliability. Substation . A set of equipment that increases power voltage for transmission or reduces voltage for distribution to consumers. Transformer . A device that transfers electric current from one circuit to another, either increasing (stepping up) or reducing (stepping down) voltage. Transmission . The initial stage of power delivery. Transmission lines carry extremely high-voltage power over long distances to distribution substations. Voltage . The pressure from a power source that pushes current through a conductor, such as a power line, is measured in volts (V). Watt . A unit of electric power that measures the rate at which energy is expended per unit of time. A 40-watt lightbulb draws 40 watts of power at any given time. See this  glossary of electric industry terms  from the U.S. Energy Information Administration for more information.

Don’t Miss Out—Registration Still Open for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference If you haven’t registered yet for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, there’s still time to secure your spot! This annual event, happening February 19–20, 2026, at The Sheraton West Des Moines, Iowa, is designed for Iowa builders and contractors eager to stay ahead in energy efficiency and building technologies. Attendees can earn valuable CEUs in Iowa’s plumbing/mechanical, HVAC, and electrical codes, while connecting with fellow professionals and industry leaders. The conference is a prime opportunity to learn about the latest energy-efficiency regulations, incentives, and best practices. Organized by the Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency (ICEE), the conference brings together contractors and electric cooperatives serving nearly 650,000 Iowans across all 99 counties. Justin Wilson of Construction Instruction The conference opens with keynote speaker Justin Wilson from Construction Instruction, who will share insights on current policies, technologies, and consumer trends in home building and remodeling. Returning presenters include Bill McAnally and CEU providers Dave Sullivan (electrical), Terry Moorman, and Jeff Reichart (PMSB), all long-time contributors to the event. On Friday, Feb. 20, the closing session will feature Kenyon Murray, CEO of Murray Legacy Management and business manager to NBA players Kris and Keegan Murray. Kenyon will introduce practical strategies for personal growth and routines that can positively impact attendees’ lives. For nearly 35 years, the Momentum is Building Conference has helped electric cooperatives and contractors collaborate to deliver safe, efficient, and cost-effective home comfort solutions to Iowans. Visit https://www.momentumisbuilding.com  to register. Registration is open until Feb.  12—so act now to reserve your place!

Resolve to tone up your home's energy use for slim and trim energy bills in 2026. As the old year comes to a close, now is the perfect time to review your home's energy efficiency and identify ways to enhance its comfort and indoor air quality. With these simple projects, you can improve your indoor space and enjoy lower energy bills in the new year and beyond. Install low-flow showerheads Standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute or more.  WaterSense-labeled models  can save water and energy while still providing a comfortable flow. Turn off water sources for both hot and cold at the faucet. Unscrew your existing showerhead by turning counterclockwise. Clean off the shower arm threads and make sure they are dry. Apply Teflon thread-sealing tape, wrapping the tape two or three times around the threads. Hand-tighten the new showerhead onto the shower arm. Be careful not to over-tighten. Run the shower and check for leaks. If it leaks, gently tighten with a wrench using a cloth to protect the finish. Air seal your basement Air leaking into your basement can make the space feel colder and increase your winter energy bills. Check for gaps in the rim joists, where the wall meets the ceiling, as well as plumbing and wiring holes on outside walls. Caulk is best for sealing gaps or cracks that are one-quarter inch or smaller. Use spray foam insulation to fill gaps up to three inches. Fill larger gaps by cutting and stuffing pieces of insulation into them. Insulate hot water pipes Heat loss through unprotected hot water pipes can cost you. Pipe insulation is readily available at your local DIY retailer. Starting at the water heater, measure the length of insulation needed to cover accessible pipes. Cut the insulation to the lengths needed. Place the insulation on the pipe with the seam or opening facing down. Tape the insulation every foot or so to secure it to the pipe. Air seal your attic Leaks in unfinished attics can waste energy, even when adequate insulation is installed. Locate all ceiling fans, recessed lighting fixtures, and electrical outlets in the ceiling below your attic. Each of these is a potential source of air leakage. From the attic, pull back the insulation to find the cutouts and seal them with caulk or expandable foam. Check for and seal gaps around plumbing vents, furnace flues, and ductwork. Seal the attic access with weatherstripping. Switch to smart outlets Replace older electric outlets with smart models. Smart outlets automatically shut off power to unused plugged-in devices. And, you can control them from your smartphone or with a voice assistant. Turn off the power to the outlet you're working on. Remove the outlet trim and disconnect the old outlet. Connect the new outlet wires — white to white and black to black. Attach the green wire to the bare ground wire. Attach the wired outlet to the box and install the new trim. Download the outlet control app and add the outlet to your system. Contact a qualified electrician if you don't feel comfortable doing the work yourself. Take a little time now to tone up your home's efficiency for more slim and trim energy bills in

Plug into electrical safety by knowing what you should and shouldn’t be doing. Electricity is safe and reliable, but it can be hazardous if used improperly. Here are some things you should and shouldn’t do in your home when working with electricity or using powered devices. Do: Shut off power before performing electrical work . Shut off power at the circuit before performing any work on outlets, switches, light fixtures, and other electrical equipment. Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets . GFCIs monitor current flow in a circuit and shut it off if an imbalance is detected. Install them in the kitchen, bathrooms, outside, and other areas that are potentially damp. Use safety covers on unused outlets . Children can suffer serious shock or burn injuries if they insert objects into outlets. If children are present, install safety covers on all unused outlets. Check for frayed, cracked, or otherwise damaged electrical cords . Damaged cords may have exposed live wires that can be shock and fire hazards. Replace any damaged cords or other equipment if needed. Unplug small appliances when not in use . Even when they’re turned off, plugged-in devices can be a shock hazard if they fall into water. Unplug all small kitchen and bathroom appliances (such as blenders or hair dryers) when you’re not using them. Don’t: Use extension cords on a long-term basis . Extension cords are not as safe as permanent house wiring or cords that go with equipment. Install more outlets if necessary or move the powered device closer to an outlet. Overload electrical circuits . Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. To prevent circuit overloads, ensure that all major appliances are plugged into a single wall outlet and avoid plugging multiple devices into a single outlet. Use indoor extension cords outside . Cords intended for indoor use are not made to withstand the climate and mechanical stresses of outdoor conditions. Use only weather-resistant extension cords marked for outdoor use. Hide powered electrical cords under rugs or furniture . Pressure from heavy weight or foot traffic can damage cords, creating a fire hazard. Move cords or furniture so that the cords are not covered. Plug generators directly into an outlet or circuit panel . The electricity generated can backfeed to outdoor power lines, where it can injure or kill utility service personnel. Permanent standby generators can be connected to the home via an automatic transfer switch, which prevents this from happening. Is your home wiring safe? Signs of trouble include flickering lights and frequently blown circuits. If you suspect unsafe wiring condition

We're owned by the members we serve, not by distant shareholders focused on profits. As we begin 2026, we're dedicating time this year to exploring The Seven Cooperative Principles—the values that guide every decision we make. These principles distinguish us from investor-owned corporations and utilities. We're owned by the members we serve, not by distant shareholders focused solely on profits. The Seven Cooperative Principles are: Voluntary and Open Membership Democratic Member Control Members' Economic Participation Autonomy and Independence Education, Training, and Information Cooperation Among Cooperatives Concern for Community This month, we're starting with the foundation of the cooperative model: Voluntary and Open Membership. This principle means membership in a cooperative is open to anyone who can use its services and is willing to accept the responsibilities of membership—regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances. Decades ago, families across western Iowa came together to bring electricity to their farms and towns. They built something extraordinary: a member-owned cooperative that prioritized people over profit. That same cooperative spirit drives us today as we modernize our infrastructure, plan for growth, and invest in our long-term stability. We're proud of our history and excited about our future. Our story isn't just about power lines—it's about the strength of members working together to build resilient systems and thriving communities. Whether you remember when electricity first reached your home, or you're simply grateful when the lights come back on after a storm, know this: as a member-owner, you're part of something bigger. Together, we power what matters most.

In November, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released its 2025/2026 Winter Reliability Assessment. In that report, Southwest Power Pool (SPP)—our regional transmission operator (RTO)—is projected to have sufficient generation capacity to meet expected demand under normal winter conditions. While many RTOs across the country face elevated reliability risks this winter, our region is not among them. That’s encouraging news and a reflection of the extensive work happening behind the scenes to strengthen grid reliability. Our region is forecasted to have sufficient generation to meet expected demand under normal winter conditions. While we’ve recently shared updates about upcoming rate adjustments, we want to use this space to highlight the reliability work that often goes unseen but is critical to keeping your electricity dependable. What Is a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO)? Electric utilities nationwide are members of one of nine regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs), also called power pools. These entities are federally regulated by FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) and work on a regional scale to coordinate, control, and monitor supply and demand on the electric grid. RTOs do not own the power grid, but they work as “air-traffic controllers” of the grid to ensure reliable power supplies, adequate transmission infrastructure, and “day-ahead” electric market coordination of wholesale electricity prices on behalf of their members. While SPP is not listing reliability as being at a high risk level for the upcoming winter season, our industry continues to navigate significant long-term challenges in maintaining a resilient and reliable electric grid. The changing energy landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. While the SPP region has made substantial progress in bolstering its transmission infrastructure and adding renewable energy resources like wind and solar, the variable nature of these resources requires careful planning to maintain reliability. A key factor contributing to improved stability is SPP’s new Planning Reserve Margin policy. What Is a Planning Reserve Margin? Our cooperative, SPP, and our wholesale power provider, Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO), must be prepared for periods of extreme demand. To do that, we rely on reserve margins—extra generating capacity held in reserve to meet unexpected needs. Reserve margins represent the percentage of unused generation available during peak demand. Nationwide and within SPP, these margins are shrinking. When reserve margins tighten, there’s less buffer for unexpected outages (i.e. plant mechanical failure) or emergencies, increasing the risk of forced interruptions. Maintaining reliability requires a diverse mix of generation resources. Dispatchable resources—coal, natural gas, and nuclear—remain essential when renewable output drops. Yet many of these traditional plants face retirement pressures due to federal emissions regulations that often require technologies not yet commercially available or economically feasible.   Proactive Steps to Ensure Reliability Our cooperative and our energy partners are taking decisive action to maintain grid reliability for our members through several key initiatives: Advocating for Reliability and Affordability: Electric cooperatives across the country are owned by you, the members we serve. This means that our cooperative works together with other electric cooperatives to educate lawmakers and advocate on behalf of our members to ensure that reliable power is also competitively priced. Resource Diversification:  Nationally, there is increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, and at the same time, we’re seeing fossil fuel plants taken offline, often ahead of schedule. Additionally, we’re seeing more pressure on the electric grid due to the ever-present severe weather events and historic rising demand, as we begin to electrify more sectors of our economy in the form of electric vehicles, data storage, and cryptocurrency. Our co-op believes and advocates for an all-of-the-above energy approach. The “all-of-the-above” approach promotes the idea that the United States relies on a reliable and sustainable fuel supply. There is great value in maintaining a diverse mix of fuel sources–fossil fuels and renewables- to ensure reliability and resiliency and meet the growing demand for electricity. Grid Infrastructure:  As a member of NIPCO, we pool resources and expertise to invest in technology, security, and infrastructure to deliver reliable and cost-effective power. Our operations are dedicated to strengthening our electric infrastructure through targeted upgrades and new construction projects, which will enhance regional connectivity and resilience. Emergency Preparedness : We work closely with SPP and neighboring utilities to protect our members from potential energy shortages and price spikes associated with having to purchase more power when demand is elevated. By having detailed response plans in place, we can take steps to reduce electricity demand during critical periods – helping avoid the need to purchase expensive power from the market when prices are at their highest. This coordinated approach helps keep your electricity both reliable and affordable. Regional Coordination:  We actively participate in SPP’s reliability initiatives and maintain close coordination with neighboring utilities to support regional grid stability. By preparing for and responding to energy shortfalls, we can follow protocols to reduce electric demand and avoid purchasing excess energy from the markets or interrupting power supply. NIPCO works closely with SPP and other regional partners to address these long-term challenges while maintaining reliable and affordable electric service for our member-consumers. As we dedicate ourselves to powering your homes and communities throughout the winter season, know that we are committed to doing everything we can to maintain your trust and find solutions to keep your power reliable and your rates stable.

Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight - and out of mind - especially in wooded areas. Photo: Safe Electricity. As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist. Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid costly or dangerous incidents: Scout the area.  Before hunting, take time to scout your area during daylight. Look for power lines, poles, and electrical equipment. Note their locations to avoid them later. Power safely.  If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin, an RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation. Avoid aiming toward power lines or equipment.  Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations, or transformers. A stray bullet could knock down a line, interrupt power, or create a deadly hazard. Keep your distance.  Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles, and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands. Never climb a utility pole.  Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines, and climbing them can be deadly. Don’t use utility poles for support.  Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by power poles or electrical equipment. Know the danger of downed lines If you come across a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment, stay at least 50 feet away, even if it doesn’t appear to be live. Power lines can still carry electricity when on the ground, posing a risk of shock or electrocution. Call 911 or your utility right away to help prevent a dangerous situation. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or heading out for the first time, staying aware of your surroundings could save your life. For more tips on staying safe around electricity, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

Iowa builders and contractors are invited to discover the latest advancements in energy efficiency technologies at the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, set for February 19-20, 2026, at The Sheraton West Des Moines in West Des Moines, IA.   The annual conference offers opportunities for contractors to earn CEUs (continuing education units) in Iowa’s plumbing/mechanical, HVAC, and electrical codes. Attendees will also have the chance to network with industry peers, learn from leading experts in energy efficiency and the building trades, and gain insights into current energy-efficiency regulations and incentives.   Sponsored by the Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency (ICEE), the annual Momentum is Building Conference connects Iowa’s construction industry with the services and resources provided by local electric cooperatives, which serve nearly 650,000 Iowans across all 99 counties.   “Electric cooperatives have long supported energy efficiency, and one of our key goals is to help member-consumers use energy wisely,” says Angela Catton, vice president of communications and development at Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative. “We invest in this conference to build relationships between cooperatives and the contractors who serve our members.”   “We’re kicking off our conference with Justin Wilson from Construction Instruction as our keynote,” said Ryan Cornelius, vice president of corporate relations at Corn Belt Power Cooperative. “Wilson, who spoke in 2013, will discuss current policies, technologies, and consumer trends affecting home building and remodeling.” The conference also welcomes back Bill McAnnally, who can be heard monthly on Iowa Public Radio’s “Talk of Iowa – Home Improvement Day.” CEU providers, Dave Sullivan (Electrical), Terry Moorman, and Jeff Reichart (PMSB), who have been long-time partners and presenters at the conference, will return to offer their specialized training to attendees.   Building trades pros learn about energy-efficient best practices during one of the breakout sessions offered during the 2025 Momentum is Building Conference. The conference will close with Kenyon Murray on Friday, Feb. 20. Kenyon is the CEO of Murray Legacy Management and the business manager to his sons, Kris and Keegan, who are professional basketball players in the NBA. He is a host of “The Leave Your Legacy Show” and is a CPLC (Certified Professional Life Coach). In his session, attendees will be introduced to a simple and digestible way to embrace personal growth. The goal is to share tools for creating a systematic personal routine that can impact their lives at multiple levels.   For almost 35 years, the Momentum is Building Conference has provided a platform for electric cooperatives and contractors to collaborate in delivering safe, efficient, and cost-effective home comfort solutions to Iowans.   Don’t miss this chance to stay ahead of the curve in energy efficiency and enhance your professional skills. For more information or to register for the 2026 Momentum is Building Conference, visit www.MomentumIsBuilding.com . Discounted Early Bird registration runs

Gift ideas that show you care about responsible energy use. Energy efficiency is a gift that keeps on giving in lower utility bills and increased home comfort year-round. These energy-saving gift ideas make great stocking stuffers for the do-it-yourselfers or gadget lovers on your list. Many are fairly inexpensive, so they won't break your holiday budget. LED bulbs  are at least 75% more energy efficient than conventional bulbs, and they are rated to last up to 25,000 hours or more. It's a gift that will last for years. Smart LEDs can automatically dim or change color tones according to your preferences. Smart thermostats  optimize energy savings by automatically adjusting household temperatures according to your family's schedule. They offer the convenience of remote control, and some models offer advanced features, such as self-programming. Advanced power strips  also optimize savings and convenience by automatically shutting off power to unused electronic devices. No more wasting energy on standby power, and those devices will still be ready when needed. Water-efficient showerheads  use less water while still providing a comfortable flow. Your lucky gift recipient will also save on the energy required to heat that water. Voice assistants  aren't just for ordering takeout or looking up trivia. With a connected app, users can easily adjust a smart thermostat, turn off smart bulbs, and use other smart devices in the home. Looking to spend a little more for that special someone on your list? Look for ENERGY STAR®-certified TVs, appliances, and electronics.  ENERGY STAR products  use less energy than standard models while still providing the same level of performance.

The winter months can bring snow, ice, and windy conditions, creating additional hazards for drivers. In the event of an accident, it is essential to be prepared. Automobile crashes constantly present danger, but when electricity is involved, decisions made in the moments after the accident are especially crucial. 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy or icy pavement. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Highway Administration, 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy or icy pavement. Here are tips to help drivers stay safe in their cars and on the roads this winter. Before the winter storm Prepare ahead for cold temperatures, snow, and ice with seasonal maintenance on your car to ensure: Batteries are charged. Tires have sufficient tread. The spare tire is inflated. Jumper cables are in good condition. A winterized car emergency kit is on board. Windshield wipers work. Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals work. The gas tank is at least half full. Create a car emergency kit Be especially cautious when driving, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, which should include: Blankets Flares Ice scraper Portable shovel Sand or kitty litter for traction First aid kit Phone charger Flashlight and extra batteries Warm hat Non-perishable snacks Bottled water If you are stranded in your car after an accident, watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.  Observe the following precautions: Do not stay in one position for too long. Stay awake. To avoid strain on your heart, do not overexert yourself. Watch for signs such as a change in skin color, numbness, shivering, slurred speech, loss of coordination, or confusion. Downed power lines Due to the potential for a winter storm to bring down power lines, individuals should only venture outside if necessary. Slow down when driving in icy conditions, and always keep a lookout for hazardous conditions or downed power lines. Also, watch for debris near downed poles and lines, as it may also be energized. If you see a car in an accident with a power pole, your first instinct may be to rush toward the vehicle to offer help. Always remember to keep your distance from the vehicle and all electrical equipment that has been damaged. Instruct those in the car to stay inside until the power has been shut off. If you must exit the vehicle because it is on fire, jump clear of it with your feet together and without touching the vehicle and ground at the same time. Keeping your feet together, shuffle or “bunny hop” to safety to ensure that you will not have different strengths of electric current running from one foot to another. Keep in mind that a downed line does not need to be sparking to be energized. It is best to assume that all low and downed lines are energized and dangerous. Never drive over a downed line, as it could pull down a pole or other equipment, creating additional hazards. If you see a downed power line, do not exit your vehicle. The safest action is to remain inside. Contact 911 to notify the utility immediately. For utility crews, repairing damaged power lines is especially dangerous during storm conditions. The increased hazards mean that extra time and attention must be dedicated to ensure power is safely restored. Have patience while lineworkers restore power in these adverse conditions. Remember to observe safety precautions and always be prepared for driving in dangerous winter conditions. For more information on electrical safety, visit  SafeElectricity.org

Generators are a great source of backup power in the event of an outage, provided they're used safely. Here are a few tips. Never run your generator in an enclosed space or indoors, especially near doors and windows. Always store and operate your generator in dry conditions, and never touch it with wet hands. Never plug the generator into a wall outlet or attempt to connect it directly to your electric panel. This can send electricity back onto the grid, increasing the risk of electrocution for your family, your neighbors, and lineworkers. Keep these tips in mind as you operate your generator to help you and your family stay safe during an outage.