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While we often describe fall as feeling the chill of early morning as we walk outdoors and hearing the crunch of leaves underfoot, the smells of fall are classic, too: roasting marshmallows over a bonfire, breathing in the steam from a mug of hot cocoa, and yes, the fragrance of stew bubbling in a slow cooker all day. The old-fashioned slow cooker has been replaced in many homes by a multi-purpose cooking appliance, and while those appliances can cook more quickly with pressure and offer other “services” such as browning meat before cooking, an old, reliable slow cooker is less expensive to purchase and cheaper to operate than an oven or a cookstove, easy to use and allows you to fill and ignore the cooking process all day. Another bonus: Slow cooking allows you to purchase less expensive cuts of meat that must be simmered to become tender and to cook dried beans rather than purchasing more expensive canned navy or pinto beans. If you have one in your pantry, now is the time to pull it out and dust it off for use this fall. If you are considering purchasing one, here are some tips: Most models have a removable insert for easy cleaning. Check to be sure the model you purchase has that feature. In addition, one with a non-stick coating can be a bonus (but do recognize that you’ll need to be careful not to scratch the coating as you scoop food from the insert). A unit with a heating element that travels up the side of the base provides more even cooking than one that has a heating unit only at the base. An oval-shaped slow cooker can accommodate large cuts of meat easier than a round-shaped one. A glass lid will allow you to check on the food without opening it; removing the lid does slow down the cooking process dramatically. Features such as searing, holding after cooking, ability to program and a thermometer can be useful, but recognize that you will pay extra for them. Size matters. Slow cookers work best when filled at least half-full but no more than three-quarters full. Most slow cooker recipes are written for a unit that holds about 6-7 quarts.

Harvesting crops is dangerous work. In Iowa, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health, about half of the 500 farm injuries that occur yearly take place during August through November, our prime harvest months. An ISU Extension publication (Harvest safety yields big dividends) states that almost half of farm injuries occur in August, September, October and November. According to the National Ag Safety Database, injuries are often caused by one of these five contributing factors: stress, negligence, recklessness, fatigue or overexertion. Especially during the pressures of the harvest season, it’s entirely possible for those working to experience one or more of these problems. Take care It’s tempting to forget personal needs during the harvest rush. But mistakes can slow or end work … and cause injuries. It’s vitally important to stay alert and on top of the job at hand. Be sure to: Get adequate sleep so you stay alert while working with dangerous equipment. Remember that your life—and the lives of those who work with you—depend on it. Take regular breaks for eating, drinking, clearing your mind and stretching your legs. Avoid alcohol and drug use. Use extra caution around children. Those ages 19 and younger are more susceptible to getting worn out. Prepare for action Performing routine maintenance before heading to the fields can prevent mishaps. Be sure that all family members and farm workers know the basics of harvest safety, including the location of shut-off switches, power lines, first aid kits and emergency numbers. Someone should also be assigned to check on fields, equipment and—most importantly—the field workers, to be sure that all is well during the grueling harvest hours. On your preharvest checklist, be sure that these tasks are completed to aid in keeping everyone safe: Mow around storage bins and other high-traffic areas. Add gravel to the driveway. Inspect foundations and seals of bins. Control late-season weeds to reduce machine plugs. Check the operator’s manuals for preharvest machine maintenance information and a refresher for all operators on how to safely and effectively use equipment. Ensure tractors have a rollover protective structure (ROPS) and seat belts. Place a reflective slow-moving vehicle (SMV) sign on the back of equipment driven on the road. Start your engines There’s no way around it: farm machinery poses a serious danger. Tractor deaths account for more Iowa farm fatalities than any other source. During harvest season, farmers have a greater risk of injury because they use a variety of machines, some of which may only be used once a year and are not as familiar. Some basic precautions can help avoid accidents: Don’t wear any loose items like strings, shoelaces and jewelry. Be aware of any difficult areas in the field and pay close attention to your equipment and techniques in those areas. Avoid leaning over or resting on moving parts like power take-offs, belts or pulleys. Stand around moving parts as little as possible to reduce your chance of slipping into a dangerous area. Do not remove protective shields and guards from any equipment; they are there to protect you. Human reaction time is usually slower than a machine's movement. Cut the power and stop the engine before you attempt to clear a plug. Regularly clean the steps and platforms of machinery to prevent falls. Respond to emergencies When an accident or injury occurs, every second counts. First aid and CPR training for everyone on the farm can be a lifesaver, as can having a cell phone available to call for medical and emergency assistance. It’s also important to be able to assess dangers such as whether a fire will lead to an explosion and knowing when it’s best to get away quickly. With preparation and care, farmers can ensure the harvest produces thankfulness for continued health and prosperity. ISU Extension offers free safety brochure downloads on a variety of farm safety issues Reduce farm injury risks on roads Harvest safety yields big dividends Evaluate equipment for dangers And more … Find a variety of other Safe Farm brochures under the Related Products section at the ISU Extension store

WAIT! Before you give your outdated or dilapidated electronics the heave-ho, consider this earth-friendly advice from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Consider recycling Electronics are made from metals, plastics and glass that require energy and time to reproduce. For example, according to the EPA: Recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent to the electricity used by more than 3,500 U.S. homes in a year. For every million cell phones we recycle, 35,000 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, 75 pounds of gold and 33 pounds of palladium can be recovered. But before you donate or recycle … Can you upgrade the hardware or software on your current computer to extend its life? If the answer is no and you ultimately decide to get rid of a computer or other device, destroy all personal information from the device first. Also, remove any batteries from your electronics for separate recycling. Where to donate or recycle Several manufacturers and local and national retailers offer donation or recycling options. The EPA’s Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) tracks and publicizes participants and major companies include Best Buy, Dell, Sprint, Sony and Vizio. SMM participants strive to send 100 percent of used electronics they collect to certified recyclers and refurbishers. For more information about recycling electronics, refer to EPA’s website and other reputable sources. How to remove data There are various ways to permanently erase (or “sanitize”) data from your electronic devices prior to getting rid of them, and methods vary from device to device. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Earth 911 and other electronic recycling gurus, general guidelines include: Back up data. Save your data to another device or second location (external hard drive or cloud). Delete data. Although files appear to have been removed, data is still there, according to Homeland Security. Even if you empty the virtual trash, the deleted items can still be retrieved. Permanent data deletion requires several steps; spend some time researching how to effectively delete data for the device you are recycling. One source for additional instructions is Earth911. Overwrite data. This is when you delete sensitive information and write new binary data over it. Unless you are a computer expert you might want to consult a professional. Destroy the device. Take your stress out on your device. Physically destructing a device is the ultimate way to prevent someone else from retrieving your personal information. There are also companies that specialize in disintegrating, burning, melting or pulverizing your computer drive and other devices. For more information on removing data, refer to details on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency website. Source: SafeElectricity.org

With the beginning of the school year, safely transporting students to and from school is critical. While in some towns and cities students can walk to school, many more are transported by school bus. According to the Iowa DOT (Department of Transportation), the greatest risk is not riding the bus to school but approaching or leaving the bus. The greatest danger zone is the 10 feet in front, behind and on each side of the school bus. That is because many vehicle drivers don’t stop for school buses as required by law. It’s also possible that bus drivers may be unable to see a student behind, in front of or to the side of the bus. Safety reminders for students Students must be aware of the dangers they face when close to a bus. To remain safe be sure your children understand and follow these rules from the Iowa Department of Education: Stop and look both ways before crossing a street. Make sure the bus driver can see you when you are crossing in front of the bus. If you can't see the driver, the driver cannot see you. Never cross behind the bus. When getting on or off the bus, never cross the street until the bus driver signals it’s OK to cross. If you drop something near the bus, do not pick it up. Instead, tell the bus driver what you dropped, and let the driver instruct you on what to do. In addition, even though riding on the bus is not as dangerous as entering and exiting, students need to be careful while riding. Since shoulder harness seat belts are now required in Iowa in new school buses (the law passed in 2020; Iowa was the fifth in the nation to pass this law) remind your child to wear the seat belt and remain in their seat during the ride. According to School Transportation News, some schools are phasing in seatbelts as they replace buses, rather than retrofitting older models so it’s possible your district’s buses may not all have seat harnesses. Safety reminders for vehicle drivers According to a report on KCCI TV, which covers central Iowa, the Iowa State Patrol has seen more and more drivers ignore school buses. While many instances are not reported, there were 106 citations in 2020. The Iowa Department of Education provides these details for what drivers must legally do when following or approaching a school bus: When the bus’s yellow flashers turn on, that signifies that it is preparing to have a child get on or off the bus. All vehicles behind the bus must come to a complete stop. If you are approaching a bus from the opposite direction, slow your speed to 20 mph when the bus turns on its yellow flashers. On a two-lane road, traffic in both directions must come to a full stop when the lights are flashing red. On a four-lane road, traffic moving in the opposite direction must slow down and proceed with caution when either red or yellow flashers are present. Stop your vehicle at least 15 feet from the bus. Remain stopped until the flashing lights are turned off and the stop arm is pulled back in. According to the KCCI report, the fines for passing a stopped school bus started at $345 in 2021. Drivers should be aware that school bus drivers have cameras. If drivers see an offending driver, they can read the license plate number for the camera to record. This allows law enforcement to charge the offending vehicle driver.

Personalization is a big trend for college dorm rooms and shared housing facilities. College furnishings—from bedding and décor to kitchen supplies and electronics—are often reflective of interests and future aspirations. One essential for the college residence is safety. There is a tendency for college students to want to bring everything they own, but unfortunately, there may be a limited number of electric outlets. It’s tempting to plug in multiple extension cords and power strips, which can cause cords to overheat, creating shock and fire hazards. Potentially older wiring in student housing and apartments may not be able to handle the increased electrical demand of today’s college student. If use of an appliance frequently causes power to trip off, or if its power cord or the outlet feels hot, the appliance should be disconnected immediately, and the condition reported to the landlord or campus housing staff. Safe Electricity offers the following safety tips for students to help prevent and reduce the risk of electrical fires in their student housing: Only purchase and use electrical products tested for safety. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a list of approved testing laboratories. Some common approved safety labels include Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and MET Laboratories (MET). Avoid overloading extension cords, power strips, or outlets. Use power strips with an over-current protector that will shut off power automatically if there is too much current being drawn. Never tack or nail an electrical cord to any surface or run cords across traffic paths or under rugs where they can be trampled or damaged. Use the correct wattage light bulbs for lamps and fixtures. If no indication is on the product, do not use a bulb with more than 60 watts. Instead, use cooler LED light bulbs. Keep all electrical appliances and cords safely away from bedding, curtains, papers and other flammable material. Make sure outlets around sinks are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) before use. If they are not, contact the resident assistant, campus housing staff, or landlord. Unplug small appliances when not in use and all electronics when away for extended periods. Smoke detectors should never be disabled, and fire alarms should never be ignored or taken casually as a drill. Every time a fire alarm sounds, residents should calmly and quickly follow practiced procedures and immediately exit the building. Stress to your student that in the event of a fire, it is important to follow safety procedures and get out of harm’s way immediately. After all, property and valuables can be replaced, but lives cannot. Source: Safe Electricity

Last month, Smart Choices featured an article about thinking twice and learning all the facts before accepting a “free” dinner to hear a sales pitch about solar or other “energy-saving” devices. This month, we are featuring a similar article from Iowa Attorney General, Tom Miller. Read the article to discover how many complaints the AG’s office has received, what types of complaints the office has received, and some suggestions for checking out the products in advance. And as always, you can ask for assistance from our office if you have questions or are considering purchasing solar panels or other renewable-energy products. Harnessing the power of solar energy is just one effort many eco-conscious consumers consider when looking to reduce their carbon footprint. A lower energy bill is the goal. Yet the endeavor can, at times, lead to more headaches and cost than consumers anticipated. Following an uptick in consumer complaints against solar panel companies, Iowa Attorney General Miller reminds Iowans to be prepared for a myriad of issues that can crop up when exploring solar panel installations. “Solar energy is a clean, increasingly affordable power source, so it’s great to see more Iowans considering installing panels,” Miller said. “We encourage consumers to do their research before signing contracts.” From 2019 through 2021, the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division received 15 complaints regarding solar energy systems. So far in 2022, the division has already received 40 complaints. Many consumers have reported problems before, during, and after installation of solar panels. Complaints received by the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division have included the following issues: Delays in solar panel installation Exaggeration of energy savings False promises to buy back power Exorbitant financing and fees Claiming false relationships or endorsement of energy companies Improper installation Defective solar panels Warranty service failures Non-communication from solar companies Denial of solar tax credits Failure to cancel and provide a refund Failure to provide contracted services Property damage at time of installation A look at complaints 1. Repair and installation. In many cases, consumers who have started the process of purchasing solar panels have spent thousands or tens of thousands of dollars on the systems. However, at some point the solar company either fails to install the panels, improperly installs the panels, or fails to honor repairs under warranty. One Iowan told the AG’s office that less than a year after purchasing a solar panel system, the company he purchased from was on-site to make repairs for defects. However, the system was improperly reassembled and left in a non-functioning state. Numerous attempts to contact the company via email, telephone, social media, and written letter have been unsuccessful. It is expected that the solar industry will slow in 2022 in the face of manufacturing and supply chain challenges. This could further affect the speed at which installations and repairs occur. 2. Payment plans, tax credits and advertisements. Another complaint received by the AG’s office: A potential customer sought information from a company after receiving an advertisement that claimed the system could be installed at “no cost out of pocket.” The consumer filled out a form and was immediately contacted by a solar company. The rep for the company quoted the system at $30,140. When asked about the “no cost out of pocket” ad, the rep told her she was unaware of such a deal. Another consumer wrote the AG’s office after being denied a solar tax credit after the annual limit passed by lawmakers was reached on the solar credit appropriation. The consumer noted that they had carefully budgeted the cost of the system to include the credits. Remember, tax credits are a reflection of government policies, so there is no guarantee that solar tax credits will be available in the future. It's important to remember there are no free solar panels. If a solar company offers to install solar panels on your home for no money down, it will likely be part of a solar lease or power purchase agreement. According to the Consumer Federation of America, consumers pay a monthly rate for the energy the solar panels produce under these agreements. The solar company you lease through will retain ownership of the panels and benefit from any solar tax credits. While the average solar lease may save consumers money, that continues only if things go smoothly. If a consumer signs a solar lease and changes their mind, sells their home, or the system experiences production issues, consumers can run into costly bills. As for tax credits, the Iowa Solar Energy System Tax Credit expired at the end of 2021. The state made the decision at that time not to pay out credits to customers who were on the waitlist for residential solar systems. According to the Iowa Department of Revenue, the credits had paid an average of $3,498 to each applicant during the 2020 cycle. 3. What to consider. If you are considering the purchase of a solar energy system, the Federal Trade Commission suggests taking several steps before agreeing to a contract: Review your utility bill to see how much energy you used in the last year and what it cost. See what part of the total bill is for “metered” electricity or kilowatt-hours (kWh) of usage and what is for other items such as delivery costs. Even if you reduce the number of kilowatt-hours you buy from the utility, you’ll still need to pay the utility’s fixed charges, like delivery or administrative costs. Evaluate how you use energy, and look for ways to reduce your home's electricity use. Make your home and appliances more energy efficient and ensure your home is properly weatherized to reduce your energy needs. Consider how long you plan to stay in your home. A residential solar system is designed to stay on a home for at least 20 years. Leases and power purchase agreements generally are long term; some last 20 years. If you think you might move in that time, find out how installing a system will affect your ability to sell your house. Ask the solar company about its policy on transferring the contract to the new homeowner after a sale and confirm that what it tells you is the same as what is in the contract. Figure out what size system you need to meet your average energy usage. Learn about the different products available in your area that will work on your house. The customizable calculator from the Department of Energy uses your address and details you provide about a system to help you estimate how much energy it will produce. If you have a homeowner’s association, find out if you need its approval to install a system. Solar systems use one or more inverters to convert direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity used by your appliances and outlets. The amount of power you get from a solar panel system depends on: the average number of hours of direct, unshaded sunlight your roof gets annually the pitch (angle), age and condition of your roof, and the compass direction it faces the size and strength of your system environmental factors such as snow, dust, or shade that may cover the system Contact us to learn more about our policies for homeowners who produce solar power. The Iowa Utilities Board offers a helpful consumer informational guide for on-site generation meant to assist residential or small businesses that are considering installing electric generation on their property. Additionally, the FTC provides consumers with additional helpful tips and considerations when it comes to the purchase of solar panel systems. Finally, remember that the installation of a solar system is still a home improvement project like any other. Protect yourself just like you would if you were hiring for a kitchen remodel or a roof replacement. Take steps such as getting everything in writing, limiting upfront payments, setting a start date and completion deadline, specifying the scope of the work and the equipment that will be installed, verifying advertising claims (for example, is the advertised electrical generation based on Iowa use or on panels located in a state that is sunny all year), etc. See additional suggestions on the Attorney General’s contractor checklist. 4. To file a complaint. If you have encountered issues purchasing a solar panel system, you can file a complaint with the Iowa Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division here or call 515-281-5926 (in the Des Moines area) or 888-777-4590 (outside the metro area).

When you rent, borrow or use equipment that will either elevate you or break ground, be sure to use it safely. Whether you are a novice do-it-yourselfer eager to embark on a lofty project or you have used several types of outdoor equipment or machinery before, be sure to always read and follow the safety guidelines and operating instructions provided by the manufacturer. In addition, keep these 10 safety tips in mind: Before using equipment, obtain proper training; in some cases, certification is required. Prior to each use, follow the manufacturer’s checklist to verify it is in good working order. Always evaluate and assess your location before using a scissor lift, a bucket truck, a boom lift or scaffolding (or anything that elevates you). Look up and look out for power line locations, and do not use equipment underneath or near a power line or utility pole. Keep in mind your equipment’s reach (height and width) when fully extended, and make sure it will not get too close to a power line. Always follow the 10-foot rule: Keep 10 feet between yourself or an object you are holding and a power line or pole at all times. If you rent a backhoe, a post hole digger or other digging equipment, be sure to call 8-1-1 two to three days prior to starting your project. The locating service is free and marks all public underground lines. You are responsible for having all private underground lines and pipes marked, such as those that service a garage or outbuilding, sprinkler system, invisible fence or private water system. If you or a previous homeowner had the lines installed, they are most likely private. When using rental equipment that lifts you off the ground, always wear your safety harness. It’s a simple step that helps keep you safe if you lose your footing. Do not use a scissor or boom lift (or any other piece of equipment) for a job it was not designed for. Before starting a job, account for external conditions, such as wind. High winds could push you too close to or into a power line, and you could be seriously injured or electrocuted. Starting a project can be exciting, but don’t just jump in. Instead, read and review the operating instructions first and take the time to familiarize yourself with the equipment. For example, learn how to use the controls close to the ground before using them at a higher elevation. Don’t ignore the specifications for each piece of equipment, such as maximum platform capacity. When you are elevated, keep both feet on the platform at all times and use appropriate boots or shoes that have slip-resistant soles. Make sure your shoes or boots are not oily, muddy or greasy.

“Save 50% on your energy bills!” “Stop paying your electric utility!” “Save thousands on your heating and cooling costs!” Have you ever received a postcard or an email featuring one of these headlines? The postcard usually includes an invitation to a free dinner at a local restaurant where you can learn more about how to “save big” on your energy bills. There’s even a local phone number you can call to reserve your spot, causing you to think that this effort is being organized by a reputable, local company. It almost always is not. As we move beyond the pandemic, these types of invitations will likely increase in our community. It’s easy to let our guard down because we all want to believe the incredible claims we find in our inbox and mailbox. These dubious marketing campaigns will tout power converters for your meter, radiant barriers for your attic and other technologies that promise to save you hundreds or thousands of dollars on your energy bills. Often there is some truth to the technology and products being pitched in these postcards. For example, an aluminum radiant barrier placed in your attic can help reduce heat gain during the summer but the efficiency claims are overstated and the product is overpriced. Do Your Research Before accepting an invitation or signing a long-term contract or financing program, please research the company on the Better Business Bureau website at www.bbb.org. We also encourage you to contact us to get our expert advice about the offer. As a reliable source of information you can trust, we can answer your energy-efficiency questions and suggest practical ways to save energy and money on your electric bills. Locally owned and governed by the member-consumers we serve, our cooperative fully supports energy-efficiency efforts. In fact, we offer several incentives, rebates and programs that can lower your electric bill. We can also provide information about which energy-efficiency products may qualify for state or federal tax credits. We just want to make sure you’re not deceived into spending your hard-earned money on products that don’t work as advertised. Be wary of exaggerated claims and overpriced products in these free dinner schemes. And if you do accept an invitation to a free dinner, don’t feel pressured to make a purchase or sign on the dotted line until you’ve had time to research the company and the claims it is making. Any reputable business would encourage you to take the time you need to make an informed decision. Please beware of these invitations – the real cost of your free dinner could be more than you’re willing to pay. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

As with other electrical appliances, it’s critical to keep fans and AC units in good working order and to use them correctly. Lack of maintenance or improper use can lead to electric shocks or fires. For example, National Fire Protection Association research shows that each year, fans cause 6% of home fires and air conditioners cause 3%. The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimated in 2017 that air conditioning equipment accounted for 33,000-plus emergency room visits annually and approximately 16 electrocution deaths each year. The Basics Floor- and ceiling fans and central- and window-air conditioners all have one thing in common: They are powered by electricity so electrical safety precautions apply to each of them. For example: Have an electrician check to be sure your home’s wiring can handle the appliance before installing it. Call a licensed professional to install any hard-wired equipment. Replace any frayed or damaged appliance power cords and don’t use extension cords with the unit. Don’t use the units in any wet or damp area, and dry your hands before working on (or even touching) the appliance. Only purchase appliances and equipment with a label showing that it is approved by a recognized testing laboratory. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care. Fan Safety Box or floor fans and ceiling fans can be useful tools for keeping you cool on a budget. Used properly and with other methods (keeping draperies closed, opening windows at night and keeping them closed during the heat of the day, reducing humidity and more) fans can reduce energy costs. However, when the inside temperature reaches about 95 degrees fans can’t prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. That’s because fans simply move air around; they don’t cool it. Below that temperature, the fan’s breeze helps evaporate sweat from your skin, making you feel cooler. There are ways to position fans to maximize cooling, such as bringing in cooler outdoor air or blowing out hot air when it’s cooler outside, creating cross ventilation with multiple fans and checking to be sure your ceiling fan is set for the summer season (it should rotate counterclockwise in the summer). Be sure that ceiling fans are installed as high as possible (at least 7 feet from the ground) to stop people from touching the blades, and any fans on the floor or at a window should be placed to avoid tripping and tipping over, and located in a spot where children or pets can’t poke fingers (or paws) into the blades. Wherever you place the fan, check to be sure that air intakes aren’t blocked (for example, a curtain might get pulled tight against the fan). Air conditioner safety Whether your AC unit is a central air or a window unit, service and maintenance should be provided by a licensed professional. Be sure to check and change the filter regularly. Since window units are more prone to problems because they are readily accessible, it’s important to keep children and pets from getting too close to the unit. In addition: Be sure the window and frame are in good condition so they can securely hold the unit in place. Plug the unit into a dedicated outlet. Don’t put anything on top of the window unit, such as bird feeders or plant containers. Don’t place the unit in a window that serves as a fire escape. Keep pets and children from drinking the drip water from the outside of the unit. To secure window units from being pushed into your home by a burglar, install an air conditioner bracket outside or add sliding window locks to each side of the frame. For greater efficiency and safety, consider replacing window units with a ductless mini-split system, especially if you operate multiple window units. Contact our office for information about mini splits. Central air units (including heat pump units) have an outdoor condenser that requires good airflow. For that reason, trim back foliage at least 3 feet and keep the area clear of other debris. Before clearing the area, turn off the power to the unit. The outdoor unit should also be hosed down to clean the condenser coils; while some homeowners do this themselves, it’s safest to call on a professional who knows how to safely clean the unit without damaging the fins. Since mold can grow in the indoor section of an air conditioner, you may need to have your ductwork checked periodically. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

July 4th Independence Day celebrations wouldn’t feel authentic without some sort of fireworks display. Many Americans enjoy professional, public displays of awe-inspiring pops and bursts of colors lighting the skies, but others create their own fireworks displays. If you plan to purchase and use fireworks this year, take safety precautions. Even if you just stick with what we think of as "safer" options, such as sparklers, similar safety precautions apply. Sparkler stats Before handing sparklers over to children, consider these details from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Sparklers reach a temperature of up to 2,000 degrees, the same as a blow torch. For that reason, young children, who most likely won’t understand the dangers of touching them, should not be allowed to handle them. In a real-life example from CPSC of sparkler abuse, a 17-year-old male created a “sparkler bomb” of about 300 sparklers taped together. When he attempted to put a bucket over the mass of lit sparklers, they exploded and killed the teen. About 12% of all fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers. Fireworks stats According to the National Fire Protection Association: From 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 18,500 fires caused by fireworks. These fires included 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. In 2017, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 12,900 people for fireworks related injuries; 22% of those injuries were to the head, ear or face and 31% involved fingers or hands. The risk of fireworks injury is highest for males (70%) and for people age 25-44 (34%). However, in a close second, children under the age of 15 experience 31% of all accidents. Fireworks safety The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display put on by professionals, rather than creating your own display. If you do use fireworks, however, read and follow these safety suggestions from the National Safety Council: Never allow young children to handle fireworks; Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision; Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear; Never light fireworks indoors; Only use fireworks away from people, houses, and flammable material; Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting; Never ignite devices in a container; Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks; Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding; Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Subscribe to Smart Choices! Smart Choices is a monthly e-newsletter, provided by Woodbury County Rural Electric Cooperative that features the latest information on energy-efficiency, electric safety and more.

In early May, the North American Electric Reliability (NERC) released a report outlining their 2022 Summer Reliability Assessment. In the report, NERC raised concerns regarding several regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and their challenges related to electric generation and transmission this summer. This month, I wanted to take this space to discuss what it all means and how Woodbury County REC is working with its industry partners to address these issues. NERC's Summer Reliability Assessment NERC placed Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) in a "high risk" category for electric generation/capacity shortfalls this summer. RTOs Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the Western Interconnection, and ERCOT (Texas) were identified as "elevated risks." NERC outlined the following factors leading to these risk levels: Storm damage to a key SPP transmission line. Above-average temperatures and drought contributing to high demand and lower than average output from hydro generators. Supply chain challenges leading to difficulty securing fuels and other key resources. Cybersecurity threats. What does this mean for Woodbury County REC? The way we generate electricity is rapidly changing. More and more, renewable energy sources like wind and solar power are coming online, while traditional sources like coal, nuclear and natural gas are being retired. Woodbury County REC believes and advocates for an “all-of-the-above” energy approach. “All-of-the-above” promotes the idea that the US depends on a reliable and sustainable fuel supply that includes developing and incorporating domestically produced renewable energy resources to supplement baseload generation that includes biofuels, natural gas, nuclear, hydropower, and coal. In May, SPP, Woodbury County REC's RTO, reported that they project enough generation to meet summer peak demand. However, that doesn't eliminate the risk of an isolated energy emergency alert (EEA) that could be prompted by a weather event, as we encountered in February 2021. Winter Storm Uri produced prolonged arctic cold that negatively impacted generation resources in the SPP footprint. SPP mandated WAPA, NIPCO’s Transmission Operator, to curtail load in our service territory. It's important to remember that the electric grid is made up of thousands of generating stations and millions of miles of line. A power plant outage or natural disaster could have an impact on SPP's projections. Woodbury County REC,NIPCO, and NIPCO’s primary power provider Basin Electric Power Cooperative are well-positioned to meet this summer's peak demand. And, as we have always done, we will communicate potential issues with you as they arise. What is Woodbury County REC doing? We continue to work with policymakers and regulators on a state and federal level for a sensible “all-of-the-above” generation approach. The ongoing energy transition must recognize the need for time, and technology development while including all energy sources to maintain reliability and affordability. A resilient and reliable electric grid that keeps the lights on is not only paramount to what we do but serves as the cornerstone of our rural economy. Electric cooperative families and businesses rightfully expect the lights to stay on at a price they can afford. To maintain the reliability of your power supply, we must adopt an “all-of-the-above” strategy that includes renewable energy as well as dependable resources we have come to rely on like coal, natural gas, nuclear, and hydropower. This diverse energy mix is essential to meeting those expectations day in and day out. We are keenly aware that the sun doesn't always shine, and the wind doesn't always blow. While we support and encourage the development and use of renewable energy, the intermittent nature of renewables means there may be times when there simply isn't enough of it to keep the lights on all the time. Its place is to supplement a reliable and affordable baseload generation mix. That's why we must continue to recognize the value of and operate baseload generation plants now and into the future. After the February 2021 event, we worked with our power provider and regional transmission organization to refine communication processes and emergency operations procedures. We are better equipped to respond and communicate potential EEA events impacting our service area, should they arise in the future. Our mission remains the same. We are here to provide you with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity that is also environmentally responsible. We will continue to advocate on your behalf and do everything we can to continue to live up to that mission. What is NERC? The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is a not-for-profit international regulatory authority whose mission is to assure the effective and efficient reduction of risks to the reliability and security of the grid. NERC develops and enforces Reliability Standards; annually assesses seasonal and long‐term reliability; monitors the bulk power system through system awareness; and educates, trains, and certifies industry personnel. NERC's area of responsibility spans the continental United States, Canada, and the northern portion of Baja California, Mexico. NERC is the Electric Reliability Organization (ERO) for North America, subject to oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and governmental authorities in Canada. NERC's jurisdiction includes users, owners, and operators of the bulk power system, which serves nearly 400 million people. What is an RTO? Many electric utilities across the country are members of one of nine regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs), also referred to as 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 do work as "air-traffic controllers" of the grid to ensure reliable supplies of power, adequate transmission infrastructure, and “day-ahead” electric market coordination of wholesale electricity prices on behalf of their members.

Our co-op staff are frequently asked about options when members are contemplating the replacement of a furnace and air conditioning unit. A common question is, “Would a heat pump help us save money?” This question is an excellent one since, for most of us, heating and cooling accounts for the largest chunk of our household energy use. An electric air-source heat pump can be a good alternative to a furnace system that runs on propane or fuel oil. A heat pump is also a cost-effective alternative to electric resistance heat that is used in electric furnaces and in baseboard and wall units. How heat pumps work In the summer, an air-source heat pump acts as an air conditioner (AC) that draws heat from your home’s air and transfers it outside. In the winter, the system’s direction is reversed so that heat is pulled from the outside air and moved into your home. The heat pump has two major components: the condenser (also called the compressor) that circulates refrigerant through the system and an air handler that distributes the conditioned air. Most heat pumps are split systems, with the condenser located outside and the air handler inside. A packaged system contains both components in one unit that is placed outside your home. Heat pumps usually distribute the hot or cold air through the duct system. In the past, heat pumps weren’t efficient enough to work in colder climates. In recent years, however, technology has advanced to make them viable in climates with long periods of sub-freezing temperature, such as the Northeast U.S. If your old furnace has an AC attached, replacing both the heating and cooling system with the all-in-one solution of a heat pump might produce significant cost savings. If you are currently cooling with window units, or have an older central AC, moving to an air-source heat pump could reduce your summer energy bills. Heat pumps not only reduce energy costs, they can also eliminate the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and problems that can occur with on-site storage of propane or heating oil. Selecting and installing Heat pumps must work harder to extract heat as the outside temperature drops. At some point "regular" air-source heat pumps switch to resistance mode, which operates the same way a toaster or an electric baseboard heater works. If your area has very cold winters, as Iowa does, homeowners needed to consider a dual fuel system, which utilizes a heat pump along with a gas or propane furnace. However, there is a newer, better option available to those of us who live in cold climates: a cold climate air-source heat pump (ccASHP). This new generation of ASHPs offers increased efficiency and operating capacity at lower outside temperatures than the “original” air-source heat pumps. The Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships (NEEP) is an authority on ccASHPs and has consumer guides and case studies on their website. Also find the Air Source Heat Pump Buying Guide on the website. It’s recommended that in cold climates, consumers should look for air-source heat pump units that have a high capacity maintenance percentage (meaning that the heat output capability is not reduced as much at low temperatures (5℉) compared to warmer temperatures [47℉ and 17℉]). Also recommended: seek a higher HSPF rating, which measures heating efficiency. On the other hand, those who live in a warm climate and use more air conditioning than heating, will likely want to focus their heat pump search more on the SEER rating, which measures cooling efficiency. The minimum standard heat pump is SEER 14 and HSPF 8.2. An easy way to compare options is to look for the ENERGY STAR® label. This indicates the unit is at least 15 SEER and 8.5 HSPF. How much can a heat pump reduce your energy costs? This depends upon the size and efficiency of your home, local energy prices and local climate. You can find calculators online that can help you predict energy savings. One entry with sample data found that the cost of heating in South Carolina, using a new heat pump and national average fuel costs, was less than half the cost of heating with a typical propane furnace or an electric resistance system. According to a study conducted in Dane County, Wisconsin, single family homes with propane heat and existing air conditioning saved 22% on their heating/cooling utility bill. Single family homes with electric heat and existing air conditioning saved 50%. Dane County and the northern half of Iowa are in the same (“cold, moist” Zone 6) climate zone. In the article describing the findings, find the pertinent details in Table 5, page 16. Find assistance to make the switch Professional energy auditors can predict energy savings with greater precision than a sales person, and they can offer advice on choosing a specific brand and size of the unit. More importantly, energy auditors can suggest other ways to improve comfort or reduce energy use such as duct sealing or insulating the building envelope. Your local HVAC dealers, if they have heat pump experience, can be very helpful. Many heat pumps are not installed correctly, so be sure to ask how they will ensure a quality installation. And of course, be sure to contact us to find out more about reputable dealers, rebates and rates for electric heat. For more information: Energy Saver air-source heat pumps general details Energy Star key product criteria for air-source heat pumps Energy Star heat pump savings calculator