calendar Calendar
Other Electrical Facts
Did you know?

  • When everyone uses a lot of electricity at the same time, a "mountain" of energy demand grows. In summer, mountains of demand usually occur on the very hottest days of the year when people run their air conditioners continuously.
  • Energy mountains cost the utility - and ultimately you - money, because more expensive equipment and fuel resources must be used to make the extra electricity people want.
  • You can make energy mole hills out of mountains and level demand.

Try some of these ideas:

  • Use major appliances early in the morning and late at night on very hot days, whenever possible. The best times vary, but generally before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m. whenever possible.
  • Spare your electric range and oven by cooking meals in a toaster oven, slow cooker, or other energy-saving appliance. If you must use your oven, cook several dishes at once, and turn it off a few minutes before the food is cooked.
  • Dry your laundry on an indoor or outdoor clothesline instead of in your dryer.
  • Use house and window fans, and a dehumidifier; instead of air conditioners, to keep cool and comfortable on warm days.
  • When you must use air conditioning during a heat wave, set the thermostat no lower than 78 degrees.

Why birds can sit on power line!

  • Birds on power lines do not get shocked because they are not touching the ground or any other grounded object. However, if you or the metal ladder or pole you are holding touch the same line, you will be electricity's instant path to the ground!
  • Do not climb electric poles to get your kite or anything else. If you climb a tree and see any kind of lines but do not know what they are, DO NOT touch them. Get down from the tree!

If Your Power Goes Out!

  • Plan ahead! Even the most reliable power service can be interrupted occasionally.
  • Put matches, candles, flashlight, and batteries where they are easily found in the dark.
  • Store water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and battery-operated radio where others can find them.
  • Turn off all appliances to avoid damage from a power surge.
  • Leave one light on to show when power resumes.
  • When power resumes, reset clocks and check automatic alarms and timers.
  • Plug in only essential items--wait 10 minutes before connecting the rest to let the electrical system stabilize.
  • Restock emergency supplies.
  • Caution: If you have a standby generator, make sure it has a manual or automatic switch that disconnects from main power lines. If not, use the main switch on your service panel to cut power. A generator that remains connected to main power lines can back feed power into them, shocking unsuspecting utility workers.

ALWAYS REMEMBER
SAFETY FIRST!
IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!