Dry two or more loads in a row and take advantage of existing dryer heat.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer than incandescent.

Set your computer to "hibernate" after 30 minutes of inactivity. Shut down at the end of each day.

Reduce cooling costs by drawing shades or blinds on sun-exposed windows or glass doors.

Storm Safety Tips

  • Never touch a fallen power line, and assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. Report downed lines immediately. Avoid contact with overhead lines during cleanup and other activities.
  • Be careful when attempting to walk in flooded areas and remember that submerged outlets or electrical cords could energize the water.
  • In the event of an outage during winter months, an alternate heating source—such as a fireplace, propane space heater, or wood stove—may be used. Extreme caution should be taken. Fuel and wood-burning heating sources should be vented. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions.
  • Do not use a gas-powered oven for heating. A gas oven may go out or burn inefficiently, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Make sure carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors are working properly.
  • Do not use electrical appliances that have been wet. Water can damage the motors in electrical appliances, such as furnaces, freezers, refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers. Electrical parts can pose a shock hazard or overheat and cause a fire.

Portable Generator Safety

Take special care with portable electric generators, which can provide a good source of power, but if improperly installed or operated, can become deadly. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring. Power from generators can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line workers making repairs. A qualified, licensed electrician should install your generator to ensure that it meets local electrical codes. Other tips include:

  • Make sure your generator is properly grounded.
  • Keep the generator dry.
  • Make sure extension cords used with generators are rated for the load, and are free of cuts, worn insulation, and have three-pronged plugs.
  • Do not overload the generator.
  • Do not operate the generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very quickly, which can be deadly.
  • Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. Portable GFCIs require no tools to install and are available at prices ranging from $12 to $30.