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These 10 tips will help protect you and your family from falling victim to anyone trying to prey upon your personal data or information. Protecting your family from cyber attacks is a priority in an increasingly digital world. With the rise of online threats, implementing a few key strategies can go a long way in ensuring your family's safety in the virtual realm. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so we want to offer 10 tips to help protect you and your family from falling victim to anyone trying to prey upon your personal data or information. 1. Strengthen Passwords: Encourage every family member to use strong, unique passwords for their online accounts. Utilize a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access even if passwords are compromised. 2. Educate About Phishing Risks: Phishing is a type of cyber attack where attackers attempt to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data. This can be done through deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear to be from a legitimate source but are actually controlled by the attackers. Remind family members not to click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources. 3. Set Up Parental Controls: Shield children from inappropriate content and potential online dangers by setting up parental controls on devices and apps. This ensures that their online experiences are safe and age appropriate. 4. Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update devices, operating systems, and software applications to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates, when possible, to stay protected against emerging threats. 5. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi networks to prevent unauthorized access. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities and consider using a VPN to encrypt internet traffic. 6. Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where family members feel comfortable discussing their online experiences. Encourage them to report any suspicious activities or encounters to you. 7. Monitor Social Media Usage: Teach your family to be cautious about sharing personal information on social media platforms. Oversharing can provide cyber criminals with valuable information they could exploit. 8. Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up important files and data to an external device or a secure cloud service, safeguarding your family against data loss due to ransomware attacks or hardware failures. 9. Use Security Software: Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices. Ensure they are regularly updated to provide real-time protection against evolving threats. 10. Educate on Online Etiquette: Instill good online etiquette in your family members, such as being respectful in online interactions and avoiding cyberbullying or any harmful behavior. By implementing these cybersecurity measures, your family can confidently navigate the digital world and minimize the risks of falling victim to cyber-attacks. Regular discussions about online safety and staying educated about the latest threats will empower your family to make informed decisions and remain protected.

You work hard preparing tasty holiday meals. Make the most of them by safely storing the leftovers. Do you know how to get the most out of your holiday leftovers? Once dinner is done, it's "go time". Leftovers that sit out for longer than two hours after cooking are a food safety no-no. So, once you are finished eating, start cooling and storing leftovers as soon as possible. If anything is left out too long or looks questionable, play it safe and throw it out. Label everything with a date to remind you how long it's been in the refrigerator or freezer. When it comes to food storage, smaller, shallow containers work best. And store everything by itself. Turkey and stuffing last up to four days in the refrigerator; gravy lasts two days. This means turkey and stuffing, mixed WITH gravy, lasts only two days. Cut turkey into thin slices, wrap tightly in small portions, and place in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it; frozen turkey should keep its flavor for up to four months. It's easy to simply top off the side dish bowls with plastic. If you do, you should eat them in less than four days. Instead, place them in small, shallow, air-tight containers so they cool down quickly. They'll last four days in the fridge, or you can freeze them and save them for up to four months. Now that you know how to store your leftovers safely, you can look up some creative leftover recipes. For more details about safe food storage, watch .

Regular air filter changes should be part of your home maintenance program. How often should I change my furnace filter and what types are available? To check an air filter, turn your heating or cooling system off at the thermostat and pull the filter out. Hold it up to a light source or tap one edge on the floor. If you see significant buildup of dust or dirt, it's time to put that filter to rest. Regular air filter changes should be part of your home maintenance program to maintain healthy indoor air quality and to keep your heating and cooling systems running at peak efficiency. Change your filter every three months or according to manufacturer's recommendations. When replacing a filter, pay attention to the recommended airflow direction typically indicated by a printed arrow on the side of the filter. There are several types of disposable air filters available. Panel filters, consisting of tangled fiberglass strands, are the most common. These filters are low in price, but not very effective at filtering the air. More expensive pleated filters made with woven polyester or nonwoven spunbond material provide a larger filtering surface. Nonwovens can be electrostatically charged to improve particle capturing without decreasing airflow. Replaceable pocket filters consist of parallel bags or "pockets" of thick polymer material arranged side-by-side with the pockets open to incoming air. The pockets make it difficult for dust, dirt, germs, and water droplets to pass through, but result in higher airflow resistance. Deep rigid cell filter boxes (typically 4 inches thick) reduce fan energy consumption without hindering airflow. They also last longer than other types of filters. Another option is a permanent washable air filter that must be cleaned periodically to deliver the best possible filtration and optimal airflow.

Harvest time is a dangerous time. Follow these tips around electrical lines and equipment, and be careful of possible entanglements or falls. Harvest tragedies can happen from a variety of dangers. Power lines and electrical equipment are a hazard, and other accidents occur from falls and entanglements. According to a 2017 report by the Iowa Department of Public Health, about 500 Iowans report injuries from farm machinery, tractors and falls each year. Nearly half of these injuries occur during the harvest season, from August through November. Keep your eyes open and your brain in gear to avoid the ever-present hazards of working with farm equipment. Electric lines and electrical equipment Each year, dozens of farm workers are killed and hundreds are injured in accidents involving power lines and electrical equipment, according to Safe Electricity. As farm equipment gets larger and taller, power lines are harder to avoid. Failure to notice them can be deadly. Safe Electricity lists these precautions: Review with all workers the farm activities that take place around power lines. Inspect the height of farm equipment to determine clearance. Keep equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines—above, below and to the side—a 360-degree rule. Use care when raising augers or the bed of grain trucks around power lines. Always lower augers before moving them, even if it’s just a few feet, and use caution when raising the bed of a grain truck. Variables like wind or uneven ground shifting weight can combine to create an unexpected result. Use a spotter when operating large machinery near power lines. Do not let the spotter touch the machinery while it is being moved anywhere near power lines. Don’t raise any equipment such as ladders, poles or rods into power lines. Remember, non-metallic materials such as lumber, tree limbs, ropes and hay will conduct electricity depending on dampness, dust and dirt contamination. Never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path! Don’t use metal poles to break up bridged grain inside bins. Know where and how to shut off the power in an emergency. Use qualified electricians for work on drying equipment and other farm electrical systems. Know what to do if the vehicle comes in contact with a power line: Stay on the equipment, warn others to stay away and call 911. Do not get off the equipment until the utility crew says it is safe to do so. If there is a fire or risk of a fire, jump off the equipment with your feet together, without touching the ground and vehicle at the same time. Then, still keeping your feet together, hop to safety as you leave the area. Don’t touch the equipment again. Entanglements and falls Did you know that the most frequent way people are injured on combines is by falling off the equipment? A free downloadable ISU Extension Safe Farm publication, “Harvest Safety Yields Big Dividends”, notes that such falls occur because the driver is often up and down the combine dozens of times a day. With the height of combine tops (12-14 feet off the ground) and operator’s platforms (6-8 feet above the ground), a tumble can cause real damage. And if the ladders and platforms are painted metal, they may be slippery, especially in mud, rain, snow or ice. To reduce falls: Keep platforms free of tools and other objects. Frequently clean the steps and other mounting, dismounting and operating areas. Wear footwear with non-slip soles. Use grab bars when mounting or dismounting the equipment. Make sure your position is stable before working on a machine. Recognize that fatigue, stress, drugs or alcohol and age may affect stability. Entanglements can happen in a heartbeat, and most operators overestimate their ability to react quickly to problems involving the intake area of the equipment. If a worker tries to unplug a stalk in a live cornhead, the snapping rolls can pull in the stalk and the operator’s arm and hand into the machine in the same amount of time it would take for the operator to release the freed stalk. To avoid entanglements: Always disengage power and turn off the engine before trying to manually clear a plugged machine. Never try to pull or remove twine or wire from a bale case or knotter when the baler is in operation, and never try to feed twine by hand. Even on idle, twine can move through a baler faster than you can react. Keep protective shields in place to prevent slips or falls near the intake area. To decrease plugged machines, keep machines maintained, control late season weeds and operate equipment during optimal conditions. Before harvest, check your operator’s manuals for maintenance suggestions. Replace any broken, worn or dulled components. For more important safety tips from ISU Extension, read a 2022 blog post titled 6 Simple Tips for a Safe Harvest This Fall.

Here are some simple maintenance tips that will help your family stay safe and comfortable as the season changes. The weather is getting colder and the nights longer. At the same time, summer heat, humidity and storms may have been hard on your home and property. With the changing season, you have got some work to do. Here are some indoor and outdoor maintenance tips that will help your family stay safe and comfortable this fall and winter and save energy, too. Inside Check your heating system. Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your heating system. This will help ensure efficient performance and alert you to any potential maintenance or repair issues. Change your furnace filter. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your heating system work harder to keep you comfortable. Change your furnace filter regularly according to manufacturer's instructions. Clean your chimney. Hire a qualified professional to clean your chimney. A cleaning typically includes an inspection for soot buildup, obstructions, cracks in the chimney liner and signs of water damage. Air seal your basement. Check for air leaks around pipe or wiring holes on outside walls. Seal any leaks you find with expandable spray foam. Also, check for gaps where the wall meets the ceiling. Fill smaller gaps with caulk; fill larger gaps by stuffing in pieces of insulation. Test detectors. Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them to ensure that they work. Wired detectors should also have fresh battery backups. Replace any detectors that are 10 years old or older. Outside Seal windows and doors. Check windows and exterior doors for gaps that can let warm air escape. Seal any you find with caulk or weatherstripping. Look at outdoor lighting. With nights getting longer, check outdoor security lights and switch out bulbs at or near end of life. LEDs are highly efficient, last longer than conventional bulbs and work well in cold temperatures. Clear gutters and downspouts. Blocked gutters can keep the water produced by melting snow from draining. This can lead to the buildup of ice dams. Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and other debris. Trim trees away from your house. Heavy ice and snow can cause tree branches to fall. If they are hanging over your roof, they can cause serious damage. Maintain your generator. Make sure your generator is ready to go if needed. Change the oil and the fuel filters, as well as the spark plug and air filter as recommended. Start it up and let it run for a few minutes to test it. Always follow manufacturer's guidelines regarding maintenance and safe operation. Sustain your snow blower. Before the snow falls, change the oil and the spark plug on your snow blower. Inspect belts and auger paddles for wear and tear and replace if needed. Check the shave plate and skid shoes for wear, and reverse or replace them as necessary. Stock up Make sure you have everything you need to stay safe and warm during extreme weather. These include: Emergency supplies, such as blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit. Fuel for your generator and snowblower stored in a safe place away from your living space. Adequate supplies of rock salt or other de-icers. With a little time and effort now, you'll be ready no matter what the weather has to offer this autumn and winter.

In March, NIPCO's Board of Directors approved the construction of a new outpost building near Denison, Iowa. Early discussions to consolidate NIPCO's outpost crews and facilities into one location began in 2018, with NIPCO Engineers searching for an optimal site for its placement and developing a recommendation for the operational goals and design of the facility. Two existing outpost structures in Onawa and Harlan served as the home base for two separate 2-men outpost crews managing operations in the southern half of NIPCO's service footprint. But the buildings, 28 and 47 years old, respectively, required major upgrades due to their age. Further, they were not suited to properly house the increasing size of service vehicles and equipment being utilized by crews. The NIPCO Engineering department worked closely with Operations to develop an initial design for a consolidated facility that would serve as the singular location for NIPCO's outpost crew to be based in a location central to the region. Thirty-one sites were considered before landing on a location one-half mile east of the intersection of Highway 59 and State Highway 141 south of Denison. The chosen location will improve response times during emergencies, benefiting communities in southern Woodbury and Ida counties and Monona, Crawford, Carroll, Harrison, Shelby, Pottawattamie, and Cass counties during power outages and routine maintenance. A proposal was brought to the Directors in August 2022 for the acquisition of the land, as well as a design concept and a handful of bids for the construction of the facility. After some discussion, the Directors felt it prudent to re-evaluate the overall design and consider re-bidding the project again in 2023. The Board of Directors postponed the project in response to supply chain disruptions and cost escalations in the construction industry. By demonstrating flexibility in design and resourcefulness in materials planning, NIPCO's Engineering department navigated through these challenges, ensuring that the new outpost building would meet the needs of our operations crew and our members while keeping overall costs reasonable. In March of 2023, a final proposal to the NIPCO Board garnered approval with a comprehensive construction estimate of $3.5 million. "When NIPCO began this process, we had no idea of the challenges we would face in a post-pandemic economic environment," explained NIPCO Vice President of Engineering and Operations Jayme Huber. "Our teams are excited to execute the design and give our south outpost crew a viable location to perform their jobs to benefit our member cooperatives and those they serve." In addition to addressing the cooperative's immediate operational needs, the larger footprint of the new outpost building will facilitate the storage of equipment and materials, ensuring crews have quick access to essential resources. The all-steel framed, 3-bay outpost building structure will feature 6,840 square feet of space and will serve as the reporting facility for four outpost crew members. The shop space is large enough to house two line trucks, one basket and one digger derrick truck, a dump truck, a crew trailer, a four-wheeler, and a Bobcat. The building will also feature a lineman crew room for meetings, central air and heat, LED lighting, a small kitchenette, and restrooms that also double as a storm shelter. Construction broke ground on the new outpost building on July 10, marking a significant milestone in the project's timeline. The construction phase is expected to continue through early 2024. "The new outpost building is not only a symbol of progress for NIPCO but also a testament to our Board of Directors' commitment to serving our members into the next generation," emphasized Matt Washburn, NIPCO's Executive Vice President and General Manager. "It reinforces the cooperative's dedication to providing reliable and responsive energy solutions for the communities we serve."

The Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Iowa are pleased to sponsor the 4-H Exhibits Building at the 2023 Iowa State Fair. Our co-op is proud to be a Touchstone Energy member, which means we're part of a nationwide network of locally owned co-ops that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member-consumers use energy wisely. If you plan to visit the Iowa State Fair from August 10-20, stop by and see us in the air-conditioned 4-H Exhibits Building on the southwest corner of the fairgrounds. Electric co-op staff from across the state will hand out plastic hard hats and suckers for the kids while supplies last. Kids can also try on some line worker safety gear and take fun photos in our co-op safety selfie station. We look forward to connecting with our cooperative members at the Iowa State Fair this summer. Please stop by our booth and say hello!

NIPCO supports the efforts of its member cooperatives to promote and partner with the communities they serve to advance economic and community development projects. Regularly, these policies are reviewed to ensure that the programs remain a valuable resource for members to increase and diversify sales, create and retain jobs, and grow commercial and industrial businesses in western Iowa. "For several years, rural electric cooperatives have built several “spec” [sic: speculative] buildings across Iowa to jump-start development opportunities for communities and companies seeking opportunity," notes Iowa Area Development Group Vice President of Business Development Bruce Hansen. In recent years, spec site and building inventory has been depleted. This spring, the NIPCO Board of Directors approved a staff recommendation to expand NIPCO's Economic Development Policy 6-4. The policy supports the development of speculative sites and buildings within the NIPCO footprint. The new policy now provides for funds to be loaned to a NIPCO Class A Member, Class A Member's Development Corporation, or a local community development corporation as designated by the Class A Member. Funding for the program will be the most cost-effective available funding source for up to $100,000 for developing a site and up to $500,000 for constructing a spec building per project. "Costs have escalated in recent years," Hansen explains. "Steel and cement prices have gone up dramatically where even just two or three years ago, a 30,000 square foot spec building could be built for $900,000. Today, that same project might have a $1.2 million or more price tag." An ideal spec building typically features a gravel base to allow for flexibility and most buildings are designed in such a way as to allow for expansion projects. Other features site selectors look for in a spec building include: 30,000 sq.ft. (Expandable) 30 ft. side walls One drive-in overhead door One walk-in door with 1,000 sq.ft. cement pad to walk/step on to The updated policy language better aligns with the rising land acquisition, construction, and materials costs and further promotes partnerships between NIPCO's Class A Members and their community project stakeholders. Also new to the policy is the provision that NIPCO's financial participation in any project shall typically be the lesser of the amount of the sponsoring Member's financial commitment to the project; or one-third of the total project's capitalized cost and, in some cases, may allow NIPCO and its Member to participate in a project without a community stakeholder partnership and provide financing of up to fifty percent, each. The new policy took effect on April 25, 2023.

NIPCO General Manager Matt Washburn led a caucus at the June meeting of the NIPCO Board of Directors to choose its representative to the Basin Electric Board of Directors. NIPCO's Board of Directors must elect its representative every three years. NIPCO is the District #4 Class A Member of Basin Electric Power Cooperative, a generation and transmission (G&T) cooperative headquartered in Bismarck, North Dakota. NIPCO purchases approximately eighty percent of its power supply from the Basin Electric. North West REC Director Representative Tom Wagner has served as the NIPCO representative to the Basin Electric Board since 2017. Wagner joined the NIPCO Board of Directors in 2013 and is the acting Treasurer for the NIPCO Board. Wagner also serves as an officer on the Basin Electric Power Cooperative Board of Directors, being named to the position of chairman of the Dakota Gasification Company, a Basin Electric Power Cooperative subsidiary. In a unanimous caucus vote, the NIPCO Board of Directors elected Tom Wagner to continue as the District #4 representative to the Basin Electric Board of Directors for a three-year term.

Following is a policy perspective from Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), NIPCO's nationwide trade organization. Matheson voices our cooperative reliability concerns while reaffirming our commitment to members. American families and businesses expect the lights to stay on at a cost they can afford. But that's no longer a guarantee. Nine states saw rolling blackouts last December as the demand for electricity exceeded available supply. This is no longer a theoretical conversation. And unless policymakers change course, it's going to get worse. In May, the EPA proposed a rule to regulate power plant emissions. This proposal will further strain America's electric grid and undermine decades of work to reliably keep the lights on across the nation. And it is just the latest instance of EPA failing to prioritize reliable electricity as a fundamental expectation of American consumers. It shouldn't have to be this way. When you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging. But instead of putting down the shovel, EPA wants to bring in an excavator. But don't just take my word for it. Warnings about the threat of reliability challenges have snowballed in recent months. The 2023 NERC summer reliability assessment recently highlighted that more of the country is at risk of blackouts than last year. And NERC says that the EPA proposal will accelerate the reliability challenges facing the nation. In May, several FERC Commissioners warned the U.S. Senate about threats to reliable electricity. And in March, PJM CEO Manu Asthana said that the regional transmission organization needed to slow the pace of generation retirements to avoid reliability problems by the end of the decade. America has a reliability problem. And with the help of co-op leaders across the nation, NRECA has been a leading voice in sounding the alarm on reliability. Today's energy decisions will determine if there are sufficient resources to keep the lights on tomorrow. First, lawmakers need to acknowledge the problem and identify the threats. Five issues are currently impacting the reliable delivery of electricity across the nation. They include: Increasing demand for electricity as other sectors of the economy are electrified. Decreasing electricity supply due to the disorderly retirement and insufficient replacement of existing generation. Permitting delays that prevent new electric infrastructure from being built and connected to the grid. Supply chain challenges. Problems with natural gas availability. None of these challenges will be easy to address, but we can start by asking ourselves this question: Is this what America is supposed to be? Should the threat of rolling blackouts be a permanent facet of U.S. energy policy? The answer to both of those questions is an obvious and resounding no for electric co-ops and the communities we serve. The long-term solution requires policymakers and regulators to recognize the need for time, technology development and new transmission infrastructure. These are the essential ingredients for an energy future that prioritizes reliable electricity for all consumers, including the 42 million Americans served by electric cooperatives.

NIPCO, along with Iowa G&T (generation and transmission) cooperatives CIPCO, Corn Belt Power and L&O Power Cooperative, have partnered again in 2023 to fund the Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa sponsorship of the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair. Other G&T funding partners include Northeast Power Cooperative and Dairyland Power Cooperative, who also have Touchstone Energy co-ops serving members in Iowa. For decades, this annual partnership of the 4-H Exhibits Building has provided a branded venue that is worked throughout the fair by staff and Directors of Iowa's Touchstone Energy electric cooperatives and representatives from the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. Iowa's G&Ts proudly promote Touchstone Energy as the nationwide network of locally owned co-ops that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member-consumers use energy wisely. If you're planning a visit to the Iowa State Fair from August 10-20, stop by and visit with booth representatives in the air-conditioned 4-H Exhibits Building on the southwest corner of the fairgrounds. Electric co-op staff from across the state will hand out plastic hard hats and suckers for the kids while supplies last. Kids can also try on some lineworker safety gear and take fun photos in our co-op safety selfie station. The sponsorship provides a valuable opportunity for Iowa co-ops to connect with our cooperative members at the Iowa State Fair. The sponsorship also places the Touchstone Energy logo on the backs of the 4-H t-shirts the youth wear throughout the fair. Stop by our booth and say hello!

This summer, Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO), in partnership with Corn Belt Power Cooperative, sent 124 cooperative member-owners, Directors, and staff to the Dakotas to learn about electric generation and to meet the people responsible for providing the electric power that is delivered to their homes, farms, and businesses. The three tours, which took place on June 28-30, July 12-14, and July 26-28, demonstrated first-hand the value of an electric generation portfolio that includes coal as a part of America's all-of-the-above energy approach and educated members about how environmentally responsible power is possible within a carbon-constrained world. NIPCO purchases approximately 80% of its power supply from Basin Electric Power Cooperative and 20% from Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) which markets power generated from the Missouri River Dam System. Because NIPCO's total, blended generation portfolio from these suppliers includes electricity generated from coal, water, wind, natural gas, and other sources, NIPCO and its member cooperatives feel it is vital to provide an opportunity for their end-users to get up-close and personal with the source of their electricity. Annual Energy Trail Tours showcase generation facilities, including hydropower at the Oahe Powerhouse and Dam in Pierre, South Dakota, and the coal-fired Antelope Valley Station in Beulah, North Dakota. A short trip up the road to The Coteau Properties Company Freedom Mine allows member-owners to see the mining process of the area's lignite coal. Mined areas are carefully returned to their original contour and reseeded to return to their original use, whether natural prairie or cropland, and monitored for several years. Often members catch a glimpse of the deer, foul, and antelope that graze on the reclaimed acres. The tour includes an overview of wind generation and the importance of renewable energy resources in America's overall energy mix. Tour participants also learn about the method of carbon capture and coal gasification at Dakota Gasification Company as well as the thirteen other co-products manufactured through this process, including fuel additives such as DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) and fertilizers used in agricultural production such as anhydrous ammonia, ammonium sulfate (marketed as DAK SUL 45®), and urea. Over three educational and fun-filled days, members are also immersed in rural electric cooperative history, business model, and the Touchstone Energy® brand, gaining a deeper understanding and pride in the cooperative difference. Individuals interested in signing up for the 2024 Energy Trail Tours are encouraged to contact their cooperative for more information.

The end of summer means millions of children will be returning to school in the coming weeks. It's important to be extra cautious while driving as activity increases in school zones and large numbers of students make their way to and from school. Follow these simple tips to help ensure that children reach school safely. Driving in and around school zones Put away your cell phone. It's a good idea no matter where you're driving, but especially in school zones where children are gathered. Always obey school zone speed limits until you're safely out of the school zone. Watch for children gathered around school buses or at crosswalks. If your morning route takes you through a school zone, give yourself extra time so that you're not rushed and taking unnecessary chances. Drop off and pick up your children only in the school's designated areas. Keep an extra eye out for children in the late afternoon and early evening on school days. With extracurricular activities, many students travel home later in the day. For children walking or biking to school Look for traffic when stepping off a bus or from behind parked vehicles. Cross the street only at designated crosswalks. Look both left and right and left again before crossing. If a driver is stopped, make eye contact before crossing. Always obey crossing guards. Always wear bike helmets when biking to school. Stay on sidewalks or biking lanes and obey all safety rules regarding crossing streets. For more information and tips see Back to School Safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

How much electricity does the average household use in a year? And are there ways to decrease electricity use? How much electricity does the average household use in a year? On average, the typical American household uses about 10,400 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Electricity usage increases with the number of household members and household income. Older smaller homes built before 1970 actually use less energy than newer, larger homes built after 2000. Air conditioning is the biggest user of electricity in the typical household at 17%. Space heating is second at 15%, with water heating following at 14%. Lighting, appliances and electronics are also significant users of household electricity. To keep your household electricity use below average, consider taking these actions: Turn off (and even unplug) electric-powered items you aren't using. TVs, computers, video game consoles, cable boxes, and digital video recorders all use energy even when not in use. Chargers for cell phones, tablets, and other devices don't use as much energy, but you can save by unplugging them. Tips: Any item that has a light on, even when powered down, continues to use power; unplug them for the greatest savings. Some items like computers have settings to lower the amount of energy use. Additionally, plugging electronic devices into advanced power strips ensures power will automatically shut off when the devices aren't in use. Wash laundry in cold water to save on water-heating costs and take advantage of solar power to dry some items (rags, sheets, or even more items) outdoors in the summer and on drying racks in the winter (with the bonus of adding moisture to your dry winter air). Reconsider cooking practices. Instead of turning on your oven—especially for small batches of food and particularly during the summer—save energy by plugging in your slow cooker, toaster oven, microwave, or air-fryer or by grilling. Adjust your home environment according to the weather. Don't underestimate the value of opening and closing shades to keep the summer sun from heating up your home, along with doing the reverse in winter. Open and close windows to let the breeze in or keep the heat out, and run fans in occupied rooms to circulate air (be sure to turn off fans when rooms aren't occupied).

Heat pumps move heat in and out of your home to provide efficient heating, cooling and humidity control. Air source units are the most widely used type of heat pump. They use the difference between indoor and outdoor air temperatures to heat and cool your home. Learn how air source units work and how they can benefit your home. How air source heat pumps work An air source heat pump system consists of a compressor and two coils made of copper or aluminum tubing; one coil is located indoors and the other one is located outdoors. In the winter, liquid refrigerant in the outdoor coil converts into a gas after absorbing heat from the air. In the indoor coil, heat is released from the gas refrigerant as it condenses back into liquid. How does cold air provide heat? Hot and cold are relative terms. All outside air down to absolute zero (-460°F) contains some heat. An air source heat pump extracts some of this heat and moves it indoors to provide space heating. In the summer, an air source heat pump simply works in reverse to provide highly efficient cooling. It takes heat from the warm indoor air and moves it outside. Split-ductless air source heat pumps — also called mini splits — don't require ductwork, making them perfect for additions or homes without ducts. Ductless systems include an outdoor unit and one to four indoor air handlers. Tubing that circulates refrigerant connects the indoor and outdoor units. The indoor air handlers are typically mounted on a wall or ceiling and are controlled remotely. Air source heat pump efficiency Air source heat pump heating efficiency is measured by heating seasonal performance factor — the total heating output of the unit during the heating season divided by the electricity consumed. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the unit. ENERGY STAR®-qualified heat pumps must have a minimum HSPF of 8.5. Cooling efficiency for air source heat pumps is indicated by seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) — the total amount of heat removed from the home during the cooling season divided by the energy used. Once again, a higher SEER is better. ENERGY STAR units must be rated at 15 SEER or higher. Air source heat pumps can reduce your energy use for heating by 50% compared to conventional technologies, such as furnaces and electric resistance heating. High-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than standard central air conditioning systems, resulting in improved comfort and lower energy usage in the summer. Air source heat pumps work best in moderate climates with mild winters, though advances in technology have made them a good option for other areas, as well. If your heating or cooling system is older or you are considering an addition, an air source heat pump is a good choice for cost-effective year-round comfort.

There are many Independence Day traditions—picnics, special foods, spending time on the water and games—but perhaps the most popular is fireworks. Read on for fireworks stats and safety tips. July 4 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. Fireworks Stats Fireworks start an estimated 19,500 fires and send over 9,000 people to the emergency room each year in the U.S. In 2021, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,500 people for fireworks related injuries; over half of those injuries were to the extremities and 35% were to the eye or other parts of the head. 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. Sparklers reach temperatures ranging from 1200 to 2000 degrees F, far above these common burn dangers: glass melts at 900 degrees, wood burns at 575 degrees, cakes bake at 350 degrees and water boils at 212 degrees. For that reason, young children, who most likely won’t understand the dangers of touching them, should not be allowed to handle them. About 25% of all fireworks injuries were caused by sparklers in 2018. Fireworks Safety The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display put on by professionals, rather than creating a display. If you do use fireworks, however, read and follow these safety suggestions: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Never use fireworks after ingesting alcohol or drugs. Older children should use them only under close adult supervision. Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear and clothing. Never light them indoors. Only use them away from people, houses and flammable materials. 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 or a hose nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. Fun Substitutes for Fireworks A few ideas to get into the patriotic spirit, without fireworks: Substitute glow sticks, bubbles, confetti, colored silly string and noise makers that can add a celebratory feel with little risk of injury. Set up a screen and projector for an outdoor movie night. Set up a table to make a patriotic craft together. Throw a birthday party for the USA (and don’t forget the birthday cake). Sources: Consumer Product Safety Commission, National Fire Protection Association, Mayo Clinic Network, National Safety Council

How can I be sure to keep summer cookouts safe? Outdoor grilling is a popular summer activity. It's a great way to cook flavorful meals and spend time with friends and family. However, if not treated carefully, grills can be dangerous. Fire departments across the country respond to an average of 9,600 home fires a year involving grills, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Leading causes of grill fires are a failure to clean, having the grill too close to something flammable and leaving the grill unattended. Stay safe this summer! The U.S. Fire Administration offers the following tips for grilling safely: Only use your grill outside. Keep it at least 3 feet from siding, deck rails and eaves. Clean your grill after each use. This will remove grease that can start a fire. Open your gas grill before lighting. Keep a 3-foot safe zone around your grill. This will keep kids and pets safe. Place the coals from your grill in a metal can and cover with a lid once they have cooled. Keep an eye on your grill. Don't walk away from it once it's lit. No matter what type of grill you have, it's important to keep it clean, store it properly and never leave it unattended while in use. For more information, see Grilling safety tips from the NFPA.

How do electric vehicles provide clean, high-performance driving? Peek under the hood and find out! At first glance, electric vehicles may appear like conventional vehicles, but if you look closer, you’ll see a lot of differences. There is no fuel tank, oil pump or spark plugs. Also, EVs are powered by an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine. Finally, EVs contain a lot of parts you won’t see on a conventional vehicle – such as a battery pack, charge port and inverter. Here’s how electric vehicles work: The charge port connects the vehicle to an external power source to charge the battery pack. The rectifier converts alternating-current (AC) voltage from the grid to direct-current (DC) voltage for charging the battery pack. The battery pack stores enough energy to travel a minimum of 100 miles per charge. The inverter takes DC voltage from the battery pack and converts it back to AC power for use in the motor. The motor uses electricity from the battery pack to create mechanical power to drive the vehicle’s wheels. Regenerative braking generates electricity while the vehicle is coming to a stop. This electricity is stored in the battery pack. EVs offer many advantages compared to conventional vehicles – lower fuel cost, less maintenance and quieter operation. Plus, EVs produce no tailpipe emissions. It’s no wonder EVs continue to gain traction! Ask us about rebates available for the installation of electric vehicle chargers for your home or business!

What are some simple ways to shift energy use to off-peak hours? Time-of-day or time-of-use pricing plans typically offer members lower rates during off-peak hours. The goal is to shift energy use away from peak hours — generally in the afternoon and early evening. Here are some simple ways you can save money by using less energy during peak hours. Adjust the thermostat to reduce heating and cooling energy use while away from home. Programmable thermostats optimize savings and convenience. Today's smart models add advanced features like remote control and self-programming. In summer, set the thermostat to 78°F when you're at home to reduce cooling energy use. A ceiling fan is a lower-energy alternative that can make you feel cooler. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room. In winter, set the thermostat as low as 68°F, depending on your comfort level. Wear warmer clothing or use blankets to stay comfortable. Turn off lights in empty rooms and electronics when not in use. Plug electronic devices into advanced power strips or smart plugs, which automatically cut off power to unused devices. When cooking dinner, use lower energy options — such as a microwave, toaster oven or slow cooker — instead of the stove whenever possible. Only run the dishwasher on a full load and wait until after peak hours. Perform energy-using household chores — such as laundry and vacuuming — later in the evening or on weekends when electric demand is not peaking. Charge electric equipment — such as electric vehicles, lawnmowers and trimmers — overnight or on weekends.

Water and electricity don't mix. If you own a boat, follow these 6 safety tips. Unknowingly, many swimmers and boat operators place themselves in the face of danger by swimming near electric-powered boats and docks. This innocent act of fun can turn tragic as electric shock drowning occurs each year. Help prevent electric shock drowning or other electrical injuries with these tips from ESFI. Don’t allow anyone to swim near docks or boats. If you feel a tingle while swimming, the water may be electrified. Get out of the water as soon as possible avoiding the use of metal objects such as ladders. When your boat is docked, never use cords that are frayed or damaged or that have had the prongs removed or altered. Have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) installed on your boat. Test them once a month. Consider having equipment leakage circuit interrupters (ELCI) installed on your boat to protect nearby swimmers from potential electricity leakage into water surrounding your boat. Have your boat’s electrical system inspected and upgraded by a certified marine electrician regularly. What is electrified water? When electricity touches water the electricity moves throughout the water. This results from flowing electrical currents from faulty wiring in or near boats or docks. The water molecules do not conduct electricity; however, the ions within the water carry the moving electrons throughout the water. These moving electrons create electrified water through a process called water electrification. What is electric shock drowning? Docks and boats can carry sources of electricity. Faulty wiring or the use of damaged electrical cords and other devices not approved as “shore or marine rated” can cause the surrounding water source to become energized from electricity leakage. When the human body makes contact with energized water it becomes the conductor of electricity and can cause complete loss of muscle control, ventricular fibrillation and electric shock death.

NIPCO IT (Information Technology) Administrator Kyan Ludwig was recognized in March as one of six recipients of the 2023 KLEM-land Community Champion Award. The Community Champions program is a locally led effort by KLEM Radio and area businesses to recognize young adult professionals making a difference in the Le Mars community. Kyan was nominated for the award for his involvement with the Le Mars YMCA, where he serves as the Board President. Kyan is also a board member of the Le Mars United Way. Kyan grew up in Le Mars and attended college at the University of Northern Iowa. While in college, Kyan worked in the IT department for John Deere in Waterloo, Iowa, remaining with the organization for two years after he graduated from UNI. Kyan accepted a position as NIPCO Computer Systems Specialist in 2018, returning him to his hometown. He believes in giving back to his community and witnessing how service on local boards positively impacts the community where he and his wife, Ashley, are raising their son, Ollie, and look forward to the birth of their second child in the coming weeks. Cooperative employees are committed to the communities they serve and NIPCO congratulates Kyan on this recognition and for demonstrating the Cooperative Principle of "Concern for Community".

Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative's 2023 Annual Meeting focused on how the generation and transmission cooperative is "Wired to Serve." Now, more than ever, taking actionable steps to keep the power flowing through western Iowa while maintaining stable rates is how we are wired. Video reports from Board President Louis Reed and Treasurer Tom Wagner were presented along with NIPCO employee testimonial videos describing how their positions allow them to connect with and serve our members. Basin Electric Power Cooperative's Andy Buntrock, Vice President of Strategic Planning and Communications, and Tyler Hamman, Vice President of Governmental Relations, provided updates on operations at NIPCO's primary power provider and insights into federal legislation impacting the electric transmission and generation industry. Southwest Power Pool's Director of Operations CJ Brown provided insight into SPP's operations, the importance of an all-of-the-above generation strategy, and the value of working together to ensure reliability and resource adequacy across the bulk electric grid. NIPCO Executive Vice President and General Manager Matt Washburn closed the business meeting by tying together the valuable information presented by the meeting speakers to demonstrate how their efforts impact NIPCO's ability to serve the member systems in western Iowa. Tom Wagner, who serves as the director representative for North West REC, and Bryan Greve, who serves as the director representative for Nishnabotna Valley REC, were both re-elected to serve another three-year term representing their cooperatives on the NIPCO Board of Directors. Harrison County REC Director representative Jim Sharp was recognized for his contributions to the NIPCO organization through his participation on the Board since 2015. Director Sharp resigned from his position on the Board in March. During the Reorganizational Meeting of the NIPCO Board of Directors, Director Louis Reed (WIPCO) was re-elected President of the NIPCO Board of Directors, and Director Ron Steinhoff (Woodbury County REC) as Vice President. Director Tom Wagner (North West REC) will continue as Treasurer, and Director Trent Will (Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative) will continue to serve as Secretary to the NIPCO Board of Directors. A copy of the 2023 Annual Report, photos, and videos can be found by visiting our Annual Meeting page on our website.

The following Perspective Column was published in the April Issue of Iowa Electric Cooperative Living. By Chuck Soderberg, executive vice president and general manager of the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives In late February, the Des Moines Register's Editorial Board published a reckless column calling for MidAmerican Energy and other Iowa electric utilities to abandon coal, "even if doing so also means taking some gambles on brownouts and blackouts, price volatility and newer technology." I'm here to tell you that Iowa's locally owned electric cooperatives will never gamble on our responsibility to provide reliable and affordable service to member-consumers. Our mission to power lives and empower communities guides the decision-making of our elected co-op boards, not a newspaper's editorial Board. Electricity has become an essential service in our lives. Your electric cooperative is committed to providing power around the clock for your elderly neighbor on a fixed income to the local ethanol plant and every other member in between. Your community relies on electricity to power critical services and the local economy, and we don't take that responsibility lightly. We've talked before in the pages of this magazine about how the transition to a renewable energy economy will take decades. Last summer's generation shortfall warning from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) underscored the need for a diversified energy mix to ensure reliable electricity. And we all heard about the devastation that resulted from emergency blackouts during the February 2021 polar vortex crisis in Texas as demand for electricity greatly exceeded supply. Your electric cooperative uses an "all of the above" generation strategy to ensure availability of power when you flip the light switch or turn the thermostat dial. Here are two realities we must work with in the electric industry today: Many renewable energy sources like wind and solar are intermittent; they don't generate electricity when the sun doesn't shine or the wind doesn't blow. Other generation sources like coal, natural gas and nuclear are dispatchable, which means we can turn them on and ramp up production when needed. Generally speaking, electricity must be simultaneously generated as it is consumed. This requires supply to be in constant balance with electric demand and we must be able to dispatch more electric generation quickly when needed, usually on very hot or very cold days as people increase the use of air conditioners or electric heat. Battery technology has yet to be developed which can adequately store electricity from intermittent sources on a utility scale for a long range of time. While we invest in battery technology advancements to make renewable sources more dispatchable for utility scale, Iowa's electric cooperatives continue to maintain a variety of generation sources to protect the reliability and affordability of your power. Electric co-ops are transitioning to more renewable sources of generation when it is feasible to do so. And we will continue to advocate for an "all of the above" energy strategy with state and federal policymakers because we refuse to gamble reliability, affordability, or the trust you place in us.

NIPCO employees celebrate the approaching high school and college graduations of their children. Pictured above, from left to right: Gavin Koonz, son of NIPCO SCADA Technician Jeff Koonz and his wife, Kim, will graduate from West High School in Sioux City. Gavin is undecided about his future plans. Carson Ott, son of NIPCO Sr. Meter Technician Justin Ott and his wife Alicia, will graduate from Le Mars Community High School in May. Carson will attend Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in the fall as a student in their Criminology program. Evan Tyler, son of NIPCO Control Operator Adam Tyler and his wife, Billie Jo, will graduate from MOC-FV High School and plans to work full-time at Neal Chase Lumber in Alton, where he has worked throughout high school. Congratulations to these young men on their achievements. NIPCO is excited about the fantastic things these graduates will accomplish in the coming years.

NIPCO is proud to announce the recipients of its scholarship program for the 2023-2024 academic year. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and a solid commitment to their communities. We are honored to support their future endeavors and excited to see the positive impact they will have on the world. Pictured above are: Josh Scheitler (lower right corner), son of NIPCO Senior Telecommunications Technician Marc Scheitler, and his wife, Lisa, was awarded the $1,000 scholarship from Basin Electric Power Cooperative. Josh will be a sophomore at Iowa State University this fall and is working toward a degree in software engineering. Molly Scheitler (upper left corner), daughter of NIPCO Chief Financial Officer Jane Scheitler and husband, Bill, was awarded an $850) scholarship from NIPCO. Molly, who will be a sophomore at the University of Iowa in the fall, is majoring in Political Science and Pre-Law. Brad Curren (upper right corner) is the son of Nishnabotna Valley REC Journeyman Lineman Dave Curren and his wife, Grace. In the fall, Brad will be a freshman at Central College in Pella, Iowa. He is currently undecided as to his chosen major. Damon Van Beek (lower left corner) is the son of North West REC Operations Coordinator Sheila Van Beek and her husband, Todd. Damon plans to attend Northwest Iowa Community College to participate in the Power Line Program this fall. Congratulations to this year's scholarship winners!

With the retirement of Harrison County REC's Director Representative Jim Sharp, the distribution cooperative Class A Member appointed Director Brenda Lundergard to fulfill Sharp's remaining term, which expires in 2024. Lundergard was formally seated with a unanimous vote of approval from NIPCO's Board of Directors at its April meeting. Brenda has served on the Harrison County REC Board of Directors since 2019 and is currently the Board Secretary. She earned her Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate in March 2020 and her Board Leadership Certificate in March 2023. "I am excited to serve on the NIPCO Board of Directors and to continue representing our members at the G&T (Generation and Transmission) cooperative level." Brenda, her husband, Jason, and their two sons live in rural Logan, Iowa. Brenda and Jason are owner/operators of Lundergard Farms Trucking since 2010 and farm around 450 acres. Brenda currently helps with the youth group at her church UMC Logan and has volunteered with blood drives, Logan Boy Scouts, and is a volunteer coach for the Lego League. She loves watching her boys play sports and perform in show choir when she isn't working. She also enjoys camping, boating, fishing, and gardening. Welcome Director Lundergard!

Get safety tips for the workplace DIY projects, EVs and charging, and your home’s electrical system. While electrical safety is important every month, this organization shines a light on safety issues this month including in the workplace, EVs and charging, understanding your home’s electrical system and DIY safety. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May to educate consumers and professionals on why it’s important to take safety measures when working around and living with electricity. The 2023 theme for this safety month is “Electrification: E-Mobility.” According to ESFI, this relates to the rapid advancements made to emerging technologies, such as electric vehicles. Their goal is to highlight the need for safe, efficient devices to support this increasing demand for more electrification. During this month, the ESFI is featuring education on several safety issues. These include: Workplace Safety: Avoid Common Electrical Hazards. Contact with or exposure to electricity is one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities. Learn more about these hazards. Prepare Your Home or Business for Electric Vehicles and Electric Vehicle Charging Safety. As more consumers explore the option of purchasing an electric vehicle, charging them safely is important. Understanding Your Home Electrical System. Learn more about your service panel, your wiring system and outlet and extension cord safety. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Electrical Safety. Learn more about staying safe when using power tools, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Does running a ceiling fan make a room cooler? Circulating air with fans doesn't cool a room; it makes people feel cooler by enhancing evaporation from the skin. Nearly everyone has enjoyed the relief of a cool breeze on a hot, humid day. The air movement created by circulating fans creates that same wind-chill effect, making you feel more comfortable — even in spaces cooled by air conditioning. This can reduce the need for climate control, lowering summer energy bills. Ceiling fans are particularly effective in circulating air. In some cases, running ceiling fans allows you to raise the thermostat by up to 4°F without a reduction in comfort. Running fans will actually waste energy if there is no one there to feel the effect. Therefore, it's important to shut off fans in empty rooms.

Guided by our cooperative commitment to community, Iowa’s electric co-ops are excited to participate in the statewide Shine the Light contest once again in June to celebrate local volunteers. Sponsored by the Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa, the contest will accept nominations in June and select three winners who will each receive a $2,500 donation to their local charity or nonprofit. “We’ve been truly inspired by the contest entries we received in our first two years,” remarked Erin Campbell, director of communications for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. “We’re increasing our three charity donations from $2,000 to $2,500 each this year to encourage even more participation across the state.” Member-consumers and employees of Iowa’s electric cooperatives are eligible to nominate local volunteers during the month of June. If you receive electricity from our cooperative, you’re a co-op member-consumer and we encourage you to nominate someone who is making a positive impact in the community. The volunteer being nominated does not need to be a co-op member-consumer. Minors may be nominated with consent from their parents or legal guardians. The three winners will be announced in September and featured in Iowa Electric Cooperative Living magazine. Go to www.IowaShineTheLight.com to review the contest rules. Contest entries will be accepted at this website starting on June 1. Help us shine the light on community volunteers this summer and consider making a nomination.

All of the energy you spend each spring to create that perfect green lawn could be used to plant the seeds for a lower energy bill. A well-designed landscape can provide cooling shade around your home that reduces the need for air-conditioning. Dig this: Plant leafy trees on the south and west sides of your home to provide shade on hot summer days. The leaves will fall off in the autumn and allow warm summer sunlight to help heat your home during winter. Plant shrubs and ground cover around your house to help reduce heat buildup. Place evergreen trees on the north and northwest sides of your home to provide year-round windbreaks from outside air. Before you begin your landscaping project, call 811 to have underground utility lines marked. Knowing the location of underground utility lines on your property will help you avoid injury, service outages and costly repairs. For more information, see Landscaping for Energy-Efficient Homes from the U.S. Department of Energy.