Search Results

Know what's below by connecting with 8-1-1 resources before moving dirt. Spring showers bring May flowers but digging on your own this spring could spell big trouble. Even if you think you could get lucky or that digging one small hole (or two) won’t matter, don’t take for granted what lines might lurk beneath the soil in your yard or easement. April is Safe Digging Awareness Month, and before you use that post hole digger or other unearthing tools, STOP and call 8-1-1 to request that buried electric, gas, cable, and other live lines in or near your yard be marked. The service is free but digging in an unmarked yard may not be. You might think you don’t have time for that and ask yourself, what’s the worst that could happen ? YOU COULD DIE OR BECOME SERIOUSLY INJURED. It doesn’t make that yard project quite as pressing, does it? Other consequences of blindly digging and taking a chance? You could cause a power outage. You could hit a gas line and be burned or cause an evacuation in your neighborhood. You could be fined. If you hit a telephone line or fiber optic line, you might lose your telephone, cable TV or internet service. Worse yet, it could interfere with your neighborhood’s emergency assistance technology. Although it all seems like “your” yard, utilities have the right of way to the live lines lurking under the ground in places where you might dig. In fact, an underground utility line is damaged once every nine minutes across the nation because someone decided to dig without having their yard properly marked, according to data collected by Common Ground Alliance. You may think one or two “small holes” won’t matter, but that’s what the person thought who hit a line nine minutes ago. Take a deep breath, look over your landscaping or fence plans, and call 8-1-1 before you dig. Each state has its own call center to help you begin digging safely. You might know the service in Iowa as Iowa One Call, for example — but 8-1-1 is the one-call-fits-all across the U.S. By calling 8-1-1 or a state’s digging call center directly, utilities or the companies they contract with will come to your home and mark your yard before you dig. Safe Electricity  reminds you that   Call811.com  lists the name and contact information for each state’s digging notification service. The site also lists the advance notice required for marking services, which is usually two days, not including the day you call. Specifically, for Iowa, the number to call for Iowa Once Call is 811 or 800-292-8989 or visit their website at www.iowaonecall.com . So tiptoe through the tulips this spring and summer, both literally and figuratively. Know what’s underneath that flower bed and everywhere else in your yard. As call811.com  says, “Know what’s below.” Then dig safely.   For more about electrical safety, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

WIRED FOR SERVICE: We thank electrical lineworkers for their commitment to powering our local communities. During April, electric cooperatives and utilities pause to recognize a hard-working group of individuals who dedicate their lives to ensuring you have the power you need when you need it. In good weather and bad, lineworkers have your back and are always ready to answer the call. As we celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 14, this is a timely moment to reflect on the essential role lineworkers play in our daily lives. Amid towering utility poles and power lines, lineworkers exhibit a strength that goes far beyond the physical. Whether battling inclement weather, troubleshooting technical problems, or navigating treacherous heights, lineworkers demonstrate resilience and a quiet determination to keep our lights on, our homes comfortable, and our communities connected. In moments of crisis, when the lights go out, and we find ourselves in the dark, lineworkers emerge as beacons of hope. Their swift response restores normalcy, offering reassurance and hope in times of uncertainty. Whether repairing storm-ravaged power lines or ensuring continuity during emergencies, their unwavering commitment illuminates life when we need it most. Lineworkers also answer the call beyond the boundaries of home service territories. When widespread outages occur, our crews travel to assist fellow co-ops, near or far, where additional support is needed. Cooperation among cooperatives is one of our seven guiding principles; no one embodies this core commitment better than lineworkers. This month, as we celebrate the remarkable men and women who ensure reliable power, let’s recognize their unwavering dedication to the local communities they serve. The next time you flip a switch, please take a moment to remember those who make it possible—lineworkers, who are wired for service and dedicated to illuminating life.

Late winter and early spring are great times to consider changes you want to make to your home’s landscape. While the goal of most lawn and garden projects is to bring beauty to your outdoor space, a well-designed project can also improve your energy bill; increase the overall value of your home; and provide additional benefits, such as reduced noise pollution, optimized water use, and cleaner air around your home.   The two best strategies for improving the energy efficiency of your home with landscaping are to incorporate shading in the summer and wind-blocking in the winter.   Summer shading Planting trees on the south/southwest, and west sides of your home can provide beneficial shading. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, shading your home is the most cost-effective way to reduce heat-gain from the sun and reduce your air conditioning costs in the summer. More plants and trees in your yard can reduce the air temperature by up to 6 degrees Fahrenheit.   Planting deciduous trees (trees that seasonally shed their leaves) on the south, southwest, and west sides of you home can cut heating during the hot summer months while allowing sunlight through during the fall and winter when the trees have lost their leaves. When planting trees, consider the expected shape and height of the mature trees and where they will shade your home. A tree with a high mature height planted on the south side of a home, for example, will provide all-day roof shading in the summer, while a lower tree on the west side of your home can protect your home from the lower afternoon sun.   Plant trees an appropriate distance away from your home so they do not disrupt your foundation or your roof as they grow. While it will be five to 10 years before a newly planted tree will begin providing shade to your roof, it can start shading windows immediately. Incorporate other plants to provide near-term shade. Shrubs, bushes, and vines can quickly shade windows and walls.   Also, consider any paved areas around your home and how you can shade them during the summer. Think about walking across your driveway barefoot on a hot July afternoon—if your driveway or patio is unshaded, it is probably quite difficult. That absorbed heat reflects onto your home, causing your air conditioner to work even harder. You can use trees, hedges, and other landscaping structures such as arbors to shade these paved areas.   Wind-blocking techniques For the best windbreak effect, plant trees at a distance between two and five times the height of mature trees. If your home is in an open area without many structures around it, cold winter winds may be increasing your heating bills. A windbreak on your property can help deflect these winds over your home. The most common type of windbreak uses a combination of conifer (evergreen) trees and shrubs to block wind from the ground to the top of your home. For the best windbreak effect, plant these features on the north and northwest sides of your home at a distance of between two and five times the height of the mature trees. Incorporating a wall or fence can further assist with the windbreak.   Another insulating technique is to plant shrubs and bushes closer to your home but at least one foot away. The space between these plants and your home is “dead air space,” which helps insulate your home during winter and summer months.   Regardless of where you are located, if you live near powerlines, call us to discuss how far away you should plant trees from these lines before making final design decisions to your yard.

Remember: March 9 is Daylight Saving Time! America has been moving its clocks forward and back for more than 100 years, but why? Spring forward, fall back. That’s how the U.S. has observed daylight saving time (DST) since 1966. But why do we adjust our clocks twice a year? It all started with a scientist who wanted more daylight hours to search for insects. Daylight saving’s origins No, Ben Franklin didn’t invent DST, but the widespread myth does have some footing. In 1784, Franklin suggested that people should rise with the sun to replace expensive candle use with free morning light. The idea for changing clocks didn’t come until 1895 when George Hudson, a New Zealand entomologist, came up with a two-hour time shift so he could do more bug hunting after work in the summer. Seven years later, William Willett proposed the idea — advancing clocks in April and reversing them in December — to England’s Parliament, which rejected it. Willett continued to fight for the change until his death in 1915. It’s about time Trying to save energy during World War I, the German government followed Willett’s suggestions and adopted the time change in 1916. England, France, and other countries that fought in the war quickly followed suit — including the United States on March 9, 1918. The change came with the Standard Time Act, which also instituted standard time. But DST didn’t come easily everywhere. Joseph Stalin implemented the time change in the Soviet Union in the spring of 1930, but he forgot to remind people to reverse the clocks in October, making clocks in Russian time zones off by an hour for 61 years. America changes clocks It didn’t initially stick in the U.S., either. The DST portion of the Standard Time Act was repealed in 1919, overriding a veto by President Woodrow Wilson. But that wasn’t the end of DST. Some cities, including New York and Chicago, continued to turn their clocks forward and back after the repeal, confusing travelers for years. President Franklin Roosevelt reinstituted year-round DST on February 9, 1942, to make the most of daylight hours during World War II. But after the law expired at the end of the war in 1945, states and cities once again set their own timekeeping rules. By the 1960s, localities in Iowa had more than 20 different pairs of start and end dates for DST. The country came back together with the Uniform Time Act of 1966; DST officially began on the last Sunday of April and ended on the last Sunday of October. The law was revised in 1972 and overridden by the Emergency Daylight Saving Time Energy Conservation Act in 1973. Dates returned to normal after 1975 until a 1986 revision added three more weeks of DST. Finally, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended DST starting in 2007, and since then, we’ve sprung forward on the second Sunday of March and fallen back on the first Sunday of November. About 30% of countries don’t observe DST, and even more are divided within their borders. In the U.S., Hawaii and parts of Arizona don’t change their clocks, and other states can exempt themselves from federal laws. What this means for you Springing forward and falling back also serve as excellent reminders to check your batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Switching out old batteries for fresh ones twice yearly is an ideal way to safeguard your family. It is also a great time to replace that filter in your HVAC system to ensure optimal performance and energy savings.

A ladder is often necessary, whether it is for a home improvement project, clearing the gutters, or hanging decorative lights. However, before rushing into a project, take a few minutes to inspect your ladder and ensure it is the right one for the job. Each year in the United States, more than 100 people die and thousands more are injured from ladder-related falls, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). There are five major causes for ladder-related fall incidents, according to NIOSH: Incorrect extension ladder setup angle:  In approximately 40% of cases, the cause of ladder-related injuries is a ladder sliding out at the base due to an incorrect setup angle. Inappropriate ladder selection:  Selecting a ladder with the proper rating for intended use (duty rating) is also important to avoid structural failure. Select the correct ladder for the job. Insufficient ladder inspection:  Reduce the likelihood of ladder structural failure by practicing regular inspection and maintenance (see separate section on inspections). Improper ladder use:  Overreaching, carrying objects, applying excessive force, slips, and missteps are also frequent causes of ladder-related fall injuries. Lack of access to ladder safety tools and information:  Small companies that account for up to 80% of all construction companies, as well as domestic ladder users, such as homeowners, typically do not receive the required safety training on the proper use of extension ladders and step ladders. Don’t skip the inspection Before using a ladder, check to see if it is broken, in disrepair, or not functioning as it should. If this is the case, ensure no one uses it until it is properly repaired or replaced. Look for: Cracks Serious dents Deformed or missing steps/rungs Missing or uneven feet Loose steps/rungs Defective locks and spreader braces Look up first Always look up and look out for overhead power lines before climbing, transporting or positioning a ladder. When moving a ladder, carry it horizontally instead of vertically because getting too close or contacting overhead power lines could cause electrocution. Always be aware of overhead power lines and: Keep yourself and all equipment 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Electricity can arc or jump if a ladder gets too close to a power line or pole. A ladder could make direct contact with the line. Use a ladder during ideal weather conditions. Rain can make the ground slippery. Wind could blow a ladder into a power line. Do not trim trees/branches that are near power lines. It is dangerous to trim near overhead power lines. By law, only certified line clearance tree trimmers can do so. Do not use water or blower extensions to clean gutters near overhead lines. All power lines can cause electrocution, including those feeding your home. Always follow the 10-foot distance rule when working or playing outside. An aluminum ladder is a great conductor of electricity; however, a wooden ladder can be one too, depending on the condition of the ladder and whether it is wet or has metal parts. Anything that elevates you can take you too close to a power line if you are not aware of your surroundings. For more information on electrical safety, visit  SafeElectricity.org .

Like a four-leaf clover, the cooperative business model is recognized for special qualities that make us unique. As your cooperative, we don't need to chase rainbows to find our treasure – it's right here in our community, embedded in the very foundation of how we operate. When we celebrate St. Patrick's Day, we're also reflecting on how lucky we are to serve our member-owners and serve as a powerful presence in our community. Like a four-leaf clover, the cooperative business model is recognized for special qualities that make us unique. We're guided by The Seven Cooperative Principles that have stood the test of time, guiding our organization in every decision we make. These principles – from democratic member control to concern for community – aren't just guidelines; they're our commitment to you, our valued member-owners. When it comes to serving our community, we feel like we've struck gold. Our programs and services go beyond just keeping the lights on. From energy-efficiency rebates to community education programs, from renewable energy options to community and economic development programs, we're here to support our members in ways that matter most. These services aren't just business offerings but investments in our shared community's future. Speaking of gold, there's nothing more valuable than reliability and affordability when it comes to power supply. We take pride in delivering electricity that's not just dependable and cost-effective but also safe and increasingly sustainable. Our commitment to educating our members on electric safety, how to use energy wisely, and innovative ways our co-op supports renewable energy development means we're working hard to ensure that future generations will inherit a greener, cleaner energy landscape. But perhaps our greatest fortune lies in our people. Our employees aren't just workers – they're your neighbors. They shop at the same stores, their children attend the same schools, and they share the same community pride as you do. When storms strike or challenges arise, they're right here, working hard - day or night - to keep our community powered and connected. We're counting our blessings this St. Patrick's Day, and our member-owners are at the top of that list. We don't need the luck of the Irish when we have the strength of our cooperative community behind us. From all of us, we thank you for being part of our cooperative family and allowing us to serve you each and every day. After all, the real treasure isn't at the end of the rainbow – it's right here in our community, powered by cooperation and strengthened through connection.

Home-efficiency projects - big or small - add up to significant savings! Save some green by going green. The Energy Education Council provides a checklist for those who want to make their home green with no-cost, low-cost, and higher-cost options.         There are many ways to make your home more efficient that do not cost a dime: Turn off the lights when you leave a room. Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise in cold months and counterclockwise in warmer months. Open up curtains on sunny days in winter to let the warm sunlight in. At night, make sure to close the curtains. In the summer, keep your curtains closed. Set your water heater temperature to no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. When cooking, match the pot size to the burner size. Also, do not unnecessarily open the door to the oven while cooking or baking. Heat escapes, and the oven will have to reheat. For laundry, wash clothes in cold water. Hang clothes to dry when you can. Only start the washing machine or the dishwasher when loads are full. Turn off electronics and unplug chargers when they are not in use.         Here are some low-cost ways to boost your home’s efficiency that will quickly pay for themselves: Replace old incandescent lightbulbs with more efficient and longer-lasting LED bulbs. Install a programmable thermostat to make automatic changes to your home’s temperature. Replace furnace and air conditioning filters monthly or according to filter recommendations. Caulk cracks between windows/doors and walls. Purchase an insulating blanket to use on your hot water heater. Install motion sensors, dimmers, and timers for indoor and outdoor lighting. Plant trees to shelter your home from the elements. Invest in low-flow showerheads to save water. Fix leaky faucets.         Here are some suggestions that cost more upfront but will pay for themselves over time: Upgrade an older furnace, HVAC system, water heater, and other large appliances to updated high-efficiency models. Invest in double-pane windows with low e-coating to reflect thermal radiation. Upgrade insulation in the attic, exterior walls, basement, and crawl spaces. Consider renewable energy options such as wind or solar.         For more information on home efficiency, visit EnergyEdCouncil.org .

Space heaters add extra warmth but may lead to energy bills that’ll make you hot under the collar. During winter, for many of us, comfort at home means heat.  While a good central heating system is designed to meet whole-house needs, sometimes consumers turn to space heaters for additional warmth. Some people use one to boost temperatures for a single room where the available heat is inadequate, but their widespread use over extended periods can boost winter heating bills.  “In some cases, small space heaters can be less expensive to use if you only want to heat one room or supplement inadequate heating in one room,” according to U.S. Department of Energy analysts. “However, a space heater is not necessarily an economical source of long-term warmth. It is not an alternative to a whole-home heating system.” Safety. First. First: A note on space heater safety. Space heaters are only used seasonally but are responsible for 25,000 residential fires a year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which pegs the annual mortality rate at 300 a year. Burn injuries associated with surface contacts with room heaters send about 6,000 people to emergency rooms every year, and most of those incidents don’t result in fires.  Safe space heater "Dos" Because the devices are designed to give off heat, they should always be set in locations clear of all flammable materials and out of reach of small children, pets, or anyone with impaired mobility. In recent years, many space heaters have been designed with tip-over safety features, which automatically shut off the power source in the event that the unit tilts beyond its upright position. Because space heaters are designed specifically to produce heat, they should be plugged directly into a wall whenever possible. If an extension cord is used, it should be heavy-duty and made of 14-gauge wire or larger. Given a choice between high, medium, and low, or an adjustable thermostat, choose the latter. A unit that heats your space to the desired temperature will cycle less, saving you energy and never overheating the room. And buy the right size heater for the right size space––too small and the warming results could be disappointing, too large or powerful and you’ll be uncomfortable. Any time you open doors or windows to vent away warm air, you are wasting energy you’ve already consumed to produce heat. Getting More for Less “Space heaters are not the ideal solution for heating homes,” said Brian Sloboda, a senior program manager for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). “For every unit of electricity that is consumed by these devices, they produce one unit of heat.” While adding several space heaters to supplement your central heating system is also likely to drive up your energy costs, selective use can help you save money.  According to analysts at the  Environmental Protection Agency  (EPA) , the key is using space heaters in smaller rooms that are occupied infrequently, in conjunction with lower thermostat settings on your central system. Lowering thermostat settings from 70 to 65 degrees and using a thermostat-controlled space heater to heat 10 percent of a home’s conditioned floor space will save a heat pump user $67 a year. However, the EPA cautions that space heaters are most efficient when used in small spaces for limited periods and can actually waste energy if consumers try to heat too much area with the devices. There are currently no space heaters among the EPA’s list of ENERGY STAR® -rated products. Agency officials said they have evaluated several models but have no plans to include such products in the labeling program in the near future.                 Still, high-end space heaters are heavily marketed during the autumn and winter months. “Most of these units are very similar in design, but the cabinetry or packaging are major selling points,” said Sloboda. “Consumers should consider the wide range of heaters available and their own taste in features and design before buying one.” Our co-op’s energy experts can help determine if a space heater is right for your home. “Energy advisors may suggest other alternatives, like sealing air leaks, adding insulation, or tuning up your heating system so it operates more efficiently,” said Sloboda. “Those are just a few alternative options that won’t increase your overall energy use.” This article has been contributed by Derrill Holly. Holly writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for NRECA, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.

Get the "scoop" on safe snow removal and electric removers to ease the load. As winter tightens its grip, clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways becomes necessary for maintaining our routines and ensuring safe passage for ourselves and visitors. However, the American Heart Association , a leading heart and brain health authority, warns that this task requires caution . Research indicates that shoveling heavy snow can significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest. The combination of cold air constricting blood vessels and the physical exertion of shoveling creates a potentially dangerous situation, especially for those with existing heart conditions or who are not regularly active. To help you stay safe while keeping your property clear, health experts recommend these precautions: Warm up with light exercises before shoveling Use a smaller shovel or snow pusher to reduce strain Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated Avoid heavy meals before shoveling Dress in layers for warmth Listen to your body - stop if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness Consider using a snow blower for large areas Seek help if you have a history of heart problems or are over 55 Shovel fresh, lighter snow when possible Push snow rather than lifting it when you can For those looking to reduce physical strain further, electric snow removal equipment offers a viable alternative. Electric snow shovels are ideal for smaller areas, launching snow up to 25 feet away and providing easier maneuverability than traditional snow blowers. However, they’re less effective for deeper or wet snow. Electric snow blowers may be a better option for heavier snowfall or larger areas. Popular Mechanics ( www.PopularMechanics.com ) offers a comprehensive guide to electric snow removal equipment, including recommended models, in their article “The 7 Best Electric Snow Shovels for Breaking Up Snow Without Breaking the Bank-or Your Back.”   By following these guidelines, you can protect your health while keeping your properties clear this winter season. Remember, if you experience symptoms of a heart attack, call emergency services immediately.

A new year is the best time to focus on efficiency and take advantage of money-saving programs. As winter settles over western Iowa, your local electric cooperative remains committed to helping you make smart energy choices that will help you save energy and lower your electric bill. With energy costs continuing to impact household budgets, there’s never been a better time to focus on efficiency and take advantage of our money-saving programs. Our cooperative’s energy-efficiency initiatives have helped members save thousands of dollars while maintaining comfort in their homes and businesses. Last year, our cooperative contributed to nearly $1.4 million in energy-efficiency rebates, which helps us avoid or significantly reduce energy purchases by our wholesale power provider through our various efficiency programs and rebates. “We’re seeing more members interested in making their homes more efficient,” says Angela Catton of Iowa Cooperatives for Energy Efficiency, the sponsoring organization of Iowa’s annual “Momentum is Building” conference for building trades professionals. “Every improvement makes a difference, from simple upgrades like building insulation to more substantial investments in geothermal and high-efficiency heat pump water heaters.” New Rebates for 2025 Our cooperative’s 2025 rebate programs have been implemented, featuring incentives for geothermal heat pump systems, and conventional or heat pump water heaters. Our website details our full range of rebates available to help offset the cost of your energy-efficient systems, and upgrades. Switch Makes Cents: A Smart Choice for Savings One of our most successful programs, Switch Makes Cents, continues to provide significant savings for participating members. This voluntary load management program helps control electricity costs during peak demand periods, keeping rates stable for our entire cooperative. How does it work? During peak electrical demand periods when electricity costs are at their highest, typically on the hottest or coldest days of the season, the program cycles off qualifying appliances for brief periods. This small adjustment makes a big difference in managing our cooperative’s overall electricity costs. Members enrolled in Switch Makes Cents receive special rate incentives that can add up to substantial savings throughout the year. Many participants report seeing noticeable reductions in their monthly bills while experiencing no discomfort during cycling events. Take Action Today Ready to start saving? Here’s how: Visit our website to review 2025 rebate offerings Call our office to learn more about enrolling in Switch Makes Cents Connect with our energy advisors for personalized recommendations Your cooperative is your trusted resource to help you make informed decisions about your energy use. Together, we can help you reduce your energy consumption while keeping your energy costs in check. For more information about our energy efficiency programs or to schedule a consultation, contact our office or visit our rebates page on our website.

Our region is optimistic that there is enough electric generation to meet normal winter demand. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) recently released its 2024/2025 Winter Reliability Assessment, which found that the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) region, which includes our local utility, is expected to have sufficient electric generation capacity to meet normal winter demand. While the immediate outlook is stable, the electric grid is facing some significant long-term challenges: Electricity demand is growing rapidly,  driven by trends such as increased electrification and the growth of data centers. This is putting more strain on the grid. Many traditional power plants like coal, natural gas, and nuclear are being retired , often before the end of their useful life. This is reducing the availability of dispatchable, on-demand power sources. Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are growing,  but their variable and intermittent nature requires careful planning to maintain reliability. To address these challenges and ensure reliable and affordable power for our members, we are working with others in our industry to take several key actions: Advocating for policies  that prioritize both reliability and affordability as a member-owned cooperative; Maintaining a diverse mix of power sources , including fossil fuels and renewables, to provide reliable, 24/7 electricity; Investing in grid infrastructure upgrades  and new construction projects to enhance regional connectivity and resilience; and, Coordinating closely  with the regional grid operator (SPP) and neighboring utilities on emergency preparedness and response plans.   The goal is to work proactively to sustain a reliable and affordable electric grid for the long term despite the significant changes happening in the energy landscape. Your local utility remains committed to this effort on your behalf.

With winter weather ahead, make sure your home and family are prepared. The colder months have arrived! Too many times, we find ourselves unprepared for Old Man Winter’s potential wrath. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) advises everyone to ready their home and cars, prepare for possible power outages, and to check on older adults. Specifically, the CDC recommends taking the following steps so that you will be more likely to stay safe and healthy when temperatures start to fall: Prepare your home Winterize your home: Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows. Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls. Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks. Check your heating systems: Have your heating system serviced professionally to ensure it is clean, working properly, and ventilated to the outside. Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. Install a smoke detector. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year. Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available. Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies: Install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Check batteries when you change your clocks in the fall and spring. Learn symptoms of CO poisoning that include headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Prepare your car Get your car ready for cold weather. Service the radiator and maintain the antifreeze level; check the tire tread or, if necessary, replace tires with all-weather or snow tires. Also: Keep the gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer. Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. Other steps Be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages. Have plenty of non-perishable food on hand and extra water stored in clean containers. If bad weather is forecasted: Avoid travel; Fully charge your cell phone; and Keep an up-to-date emergency kit on hand. Take steps to protect your family from carbon monoxide: Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators out of the house, basement, and garage; and Use fuel-powered generators at least 20 feet away from the house. Leave your home immediately if the CO detector goes off and call 9-1-1. For additional winter prep tips, consult the CDC ( cdc.gov ), Red Cross ( redcross.org ), or ready.gov . For more information about electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org .