Win a kit to automate your lights for convenience and ... · 6 8 10 Energy-saving tip of the month Effective attic ventilation helps keep attic temperatures below 110 degrees during

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Win a kit to automate your lights for convenience and safety See Page 5!

M A Y 2 0 1 8

Play it cool with our energy-saving ideas

Take a look at the evolution of lineworker

safety gear

It’s National Electrical Safety Month: Have a

fun, safe summer!

Insulation:Now’s the perfect time to add more

2 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA May 2018

Volume 71 • Issue 5E D I T O R

Robert A. Dickelman

A R T D I R E C T O RJoel Clifton

R E G U L A R C O N T R I B U T O R SBuck Jones Ruth Rasmussen Valerie Van Kooten

________________________

E X E C U T I V E V I C E P R E S I D E N TChuck Soderberg

D I R E C T O R O F C O M M U N I C AT I O N SErin Campbell

B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R SSteve Siedl, Coon Rapids – President

Don Shonka, Independence – Vice PresidentLarry White, Mount Pleasant – Secretary/Treasurer

Roger Solomonson, Leland – Asst. Secretary/TreasurerGordon Greimann, Sheffield

Neal Heldt, MallardDarrell Jensen, Menlo

Marion Denger, Dows – NRECA RepresentativeCarmen Hosack, Harlan ________________________

Living with Energy in Iowa magazine (ISSN: 1935-7176) is published monthly by the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives, a not-for-profit organization representing Iowa’s member-owned local electric cooperatives. Association address: 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. The phrase Living with Energy in Iowa is a mark registered within the state of Iowa to the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. The magazine does not accept advertising.

Editorial Office: 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. Telephone: 515-276-5350. E-mail address: [email protected]. Letters may be edited for clarity and length before publication. Living with Energy in Iowa magazine does not assume responsibility for unsolicited items.

Website: www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com

Postmaster: Send address changes to Living with Energy in Iowa magazine, 8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48, Des Moines, IA 50322-2992. Periodicals Postage Paid at Des Moines, Iowa, and at additional mailing offices.

Change of Address: Every local electric cooperative maintains an independent mailing list of its members, so please send your change of address directly to your local electric cooperative’s office. Living with Energy in Iowa magazine cannot make an address change for you.

© Copyright 2018, Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives. No portion of the editorial, photographic or other content of Living with Energy in Iowa magazine or its website may be reproduced without written permission of the editor.

Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives

Features

6 Insulation: Now’s the perfect time to add more

Mosthomeshavesomeinsulationintheattic,butoftenthere’snotenough–especiallyifyoursisanolderhome.Figureoutwhatyouneedformaximumenergysavings.

8 Great beginnings Startanymealrightwithcreative

appetizers.PLUS:Receivea$25creditonyourpowerbillifweincludeyourrecipeforasouporstewinafutureissue.

10 Lineworker safety gear: Here’s a look at the evolution of line equipment

ManysafetyitemsforlineworkershavechangedsinceelectricityfirstcametoIowa.Butonethingthathasn’tchangedistheemphasisonlineworkersafety.

C O N T E N T S M A Y 2 0 1 8

Favorites

3 National Perspective It’sNationalElectricalSafety

Month:Haveafun,safesummer!

5 Editor’s Choice Contest Winakittoautomateyourlights

forconvenienceandsafety.

14 Home Improvement Playitcoolwithourenergy-

savingideas.

15 Out Back Kidstodayaremissingout…

maybe.

6

8

10

Energy-saving tip of the monthEffectiveatticventilationhelps

keepattictemperaturesbelow110degreesduringhotweather,reducingtheloadonyourair-conditioningsystem.Ifyouratticgetstoohot,thenaturalventilationsuppliedbysoffitventsandatticventsmaynotbeadequate;youmayneedtoaddmorevents.

Search more than 1,500 free recipes by main ingredient,

category or keyword at www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com.

Check our Recipe Archive!

Photo:Run

estone

ElectricAssn.

May 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY IN IOWA 3

N A T I O N A L P E R S P E C T I V E

It’s National Electrical Safety Month:Have a fun, safe summer!BY MOLLY HALL

The MacKenzie family never dreamed their 12-year-old daughter would die from an electrical shock when she went swimming with friends. Their tragedy taught them the importance of ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection around pools and other water sources.

The Studer boys didn’t expect an electrical flash when they opened an unlocked electrical box in their new backyard. They were lucky the burns left no permanent scars. They and their parents want everyone to understand about pad-mounted equipment.

Steve Wald and his kids felt sure they would make it home on their bikes before the storm hit. Instead, the wind brought a live power line to the ground in front of them. They turned back, sought shelter at the closest home and learned that when thunder roars, you must go indoors.

We don’t want anyone to learn about electrical safety the hard way, through a personal experience that ends with life-changing injuries.

Working for an electric utility got me thinking about electrical safety several years ago. Before then – like most people – I turned on lights, plugged things in, and never thought about electricity

unless the power went out. That changed when I learned about the multitude of heartbreaking, life-

changing incidents that were happening. Most were avoidable.

I’m passionate about sharing electrical safety information and preventing tragedies, and I’m proud to be part of Safe Electricity, the national educational program that works to

prevent electrical tragedies and deaths. I’m also grateful for the hundreds of utilities who are partners in that mission.

We know that when we arm people with knowledge, they will make the right move to stay safe. For example:

Make sure you understand the dangers of swimming in a marina or near docks with electrical service. Check for power lines before fishing, and cast away from them.

Help children recognize electrical equipment and to stay away. Tell them never climb trees that are close to power lines.

Look up when working with tall tools. Carry ladders horizontally and check for overhead power lines before placing upright.

Any downed line is potentially energized and deadly. Know what to do in an auto accident that involves downed power

lines – they may be live! Learn what you need to do to

keep yourself and loved ones safe by visiting Safe Electricity.org. Packed with videos, games, articles and more, the website is a virtual library for children and adults, farmers, contractors, business people, homeowners, teachers and just about anyone who has questions about – or needs to know more about electrical safety. Learning and understanding electrical safety steps and situations is a valuable investment of time for all of us.

Electricity is an important asset to our modern life, but we must respect that power or the results of careless use or negligence can be tragic. More than a thousand people die, and thousands more are injured, in electrical incidents and fires each year. We can change that reality.

As warmer weather sprouts thoughts of happy outdoor scenes – children running and playing, people enjoying pools and lakes, folks digging into gardening and other outdoor projects – most are not thinking about potential safety hazards that could affect their summer fun. We want you to keep them in mind to ensure a safe summer making great memories.

Have a great, safe summer!

MollyHallistheexecutivedirectoroftheEnergyEducationCouncil-SafeElectricity.

Know the warning signs of overloaded outlets:• Flickering/blinking lights• Warm or discolored wall plates• Burning odor from receptacles• Mild shock or tingle from

appliances, receptacles or switches• Frequently tripped circuit breakers

Is your home properly protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters? GFCI outlets should be used in all kitchens, bathrooms, garages and outdoor outlets.


“WHEREAS, utility workers are often first responders during storms and other catastrophic events, working to make the scene safe for other public safety heroes; and

WHEREAS, utility workers work with thousands of volts of electricity high atop power lines 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to keep electricity flowing; and

WHEREAS, utility workers such as wind turbine technicians, power plant operators, distributors and dispatchers work around the clock to keep our generation plants, wind turbines and solar sites operating efficiently and ensuring the flow of energy to businesses, homes and factories; and

WHEREAS, utility workers must often work under dangerous conditions far from their families to construct and maintain the energy infrastructure of the State of Iowa; and

WHEREAS, utility workers put their lives on the line every day with little recognition from the community regarding the danger of their work.”

On April 27, Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation announcing that day as Utility Worker Appreciation Day. The governor signed with an audience of Iowa utility representatives in attendance.

Q U O T E O F T H E M O N T H

Did You Know?Electric cooperatives have retired $15 billion to members

since 1988 – $1 billion in 2016 alone. Because the electric co-op business model dictates that co-ops operate at cost, any excess revenues (called margins) are allocated and returned to members in the form of capital credits.

Source: National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation

I N T H E N E W S

How can the “uneven landscape” of broadband access be fixed?

At the first e-Connectivity Forum in Washington, D.C., last month, Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) urged policymakers, including Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and key stakeholders to include electric cooperatives and their members in the quest to address the uneven landscape created by a lack of broadband internet access in rural America. Other speakers at the forum included Perdue, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, USDA Rural Utilities Service Administrator Ken Johnson and Mel Coleman, CEO of North Arkansas Electric Co-op and NRECA Arkansas director.

“NRECA is a group health care plan provider, and we cover people in rural places where health care providers gather at the McDonald’s parking lot to upload and download radiology images and diagnoses because they aren’t connected in their offices or where they provide home health care,” Matheson told the audience.

“NRECA sponsors a telemedicine program that can bring a consultation right into a home, but it doesn’t work best unless it’s broadband-enabled,” he said. “And that’s the situation in far too many communities. Existing programs for expanding high-speed internet access are falling short of meeting the needs of rural America.”

For bridging the digital divide, Matheson highlighted three policy recommendations:

Priority for higher speeds and providers who put their own capital in play.

Federal grant support with a preference for minimum upload/download speeds of 25Mbps/3Mbps – and higher speeds, even in low-density areas.

Rigorous reviews upfront to ensure that applicants who bring broadband to rural America can deliver the speeds they promise.

“The only way for 23 million unserved and underserved Americans to gain equal access to modern education, health care, economic and civic institutions is if they are connected,” he said. Until then, rural Americans “are living and working in an uneven landscape where those with connectivity have opportunities and those who lack connectivity do not.”

Matheson also underscored how electric co-ops already are building fiber-optic broadband to their substations and meters primarily to improve efficiency, manage load and substantially lower bills to members – especially those in rural persistent-poverty households served by co-ops.

“We are highly effective in this space because we understand the game-changing effect of rural access to connectivity in the same way we understood the game-changing effect of rural access to electricity,” Matheson said.

NRECA CEO Jim Matheson said existing programs for broadband internet access fail to meet the needs of rural America.

AlexisMatsui,N

RECA

www.iowaonecall.com

CLICKBEFOREYOU DIG


Controlthelightsinyourhomewiththe Philips Huepersonalwirelesslightingsystem.ThisEnergyStar®ratedbulbstarterkitincludesfoursoft-white,60-wattequivalentLEDs,andyoucanprogramthemwithyoursmartphonetomatchyourschedulewhetheryou’rehomeoraway.Besidesbeingabletosetthecolorofthelightsforwarmwhiteinthelivingroomtobrightwhiteinworkorstudyareas,youcandimthelightsindividually.AndifyouhaveAmazonAlexa,AppleHomeKitorGoogleHome,youcanrunthebulbsbyvoicetoo.FormoreinformationonHue,visit

www2.meethue.com/en-us.

Visit our website, and win!Toenterthismonth’scontestfora

$150PhilipsHueautomatedlightingkit, visit the Living with Energy in Iowawebsiteatwww.livingwithenergyiniowa.comnolater thanMay31,2018.

YoumustbeamemberofoneofIowa’selectriccooperativestowin.There’snoobligationassociatedwithentering,wedon’tshareentrantinformationwithanyoneandmultipleentriesfromthesameaccountwillbedisqualified.

ThewinneroftheInstantPotintheMarchissuewasDuaneMinickfromGuthrieCountyREC.

Always keep your ladder at least 10 feet from power lines

E D I T O R ’ S C H O I C E C O N T E S TS A V I N G E N E R G Y

Win a kit to automate your lights for convenience and safety!

Fine-tune natural ventilation to keep your cool

This is a Goldilocks time of year: It’s not too warm, it’s not too cool –and it’s perfect for opening your windows wide to cool your home with spring breezes.

Wind creates areas of positive and negative pressure around your house, so the windows near upwind areas will be cool air inlets and the windows near suction areas will be warm air outlets. Try a few tests to find out which windows to open to maximize natural ventilation.

However, don’t locate inlets and outlets directly opposite each other, because the only area that will be cooled is in the direct path of the airflow. If the air has to take a longer path between an inlet and an outlet, more of your house will be cooled. Additionally, a slightly opened window will create a better air current than a fully opened one.

While all of the following suggestions may not be possible or practical for your situation, try incorporating several of them into your spring and summer routines.

Close windows and doors during the hottest part of the day. If

your house is well-tightened and insulated, your inside rooms should stay relatively cool.

Open windows on cool, low-humidity nights. Natural (or fan-boosted) nighttime ventilation flushes out internal and solar heat that builds up during the day.

Use fans to boost a cross-breeze. Blow air from the cool side (the shady side) of your house to the hotter side.

Close windows early in the morning. If you don’t let warm air into your home, you can delay using your air conditioner until later in the day.

Leave windows closed when the humidity is high. If it’s humid and you use your air-conditioning regularly, you’re better off not opening your windows on cooler days or at night. Your air conditioner will have to work extra hard to remove excessive humidity from your house before it can begin to cool it.

Make sure your attic is adequately ventilated. Your roof can absorb a tremendous amount of heat during the summer. If it isn’t properly insulated and ventilated, the temperature could reach 150 degrees, which is like having a gigantic radiator above your living spaces.


Insulation: Now’s the perfect time to add moreBY DIANE VETO PARHAM

Imagine your home isn’t just the place you sleep, eat and store your stuff, but more like a part of your family – with its own unique needs. Ignore those needs, and both you and your home suffer the consequences. But pay closer attention, and you can find ways to enjoy a more pleasant – and efficient – living environment.

“It’s amazing how much comfort you can provide by spending a few dollars,” says Brian Sloboda, program manager for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “You’re going to increase your quality of life.”

Knowing what your house needs is job one. Your heating-and-cooling system, appliances, lightbulbs, air leaks and insulation can affect not only how your home is behaving, but also how much you’re paying to keep it all running.

How much insulation do you already have?Evenifyourhomeisonly8to10

yearsold,itmaynothaveenoughinsulationintheattic.Ifyouliveinamucholderhome,it’sprettylikelythataddingmoreinsulationwillhelpreduceyourcoolingandheatingbills.Lookintheattic,andusethis

charttofigureoutwhatkindofinsulationyouhaveandwhatitsR-valueis.Thenmeasuretheinsulation’sdepthandmultiplyitbythefactorshowntoestimatetheexistingR-value.

How much insulation do you need?InsulationismeasuredbyR-value–

itsresistancetoconductiveheatflow.ThehighertheR-value,thegreatertheinsulatingeffectiveness.R-valuedependsonthetypeof

insulation,itsthicknessanditsdensity,andtheR-valueofsomeinsulationsalsodependsontemperature,agingandmoistureaccumulation.WhencalculatingtheR-valueofamultilayeredinstallation,addtheR-valuesoftheindividuallayers.InIowa,youshouldhaveinsulation

ratedatR49-R60inyourattic.

May 2018 LIVING WITH ENERGY INIOWA 7

Boost your attic insulationWhat you spend to upgrade your

attic insulation will depend on multiple variables, including the type and depth of insulation you choose – fiberglass, cellulose, batts or loose fill – as well as the size of the attic space and the contractor’s labor costs (unless you decide to do the job yourself). Costs can range from about $1,300 to $2,000, depending on your home’s style.

The greatest benefit of adding attic insulation is that you’ll reduce your energy bills by keeping heated and cooled air in your living spaces. In addition, you can add insulation yourself with proper tools, safety gear and precautions, but it’s a job many people feel is best left to professionals.

What’s in your attic now?A peek in most attics will reveal the

tried-and-true materials commonly used to insulate homes: fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or spray-foam insulation. Regardless of type, the keys to effective insulation are the same – getting the right R-value

for your home’s insulation, proper installation and air sealing.

Fiberglass: This is the insulation that looks like cotton candy, commonly seen in long strips – called batts or rolls – between (and, if it’s deep enough, on top of) wall studs and ceiling joists. It might be pink, white or yellow, and it also comes in a loose-fill form, often blown into attic spaces. Made of tiny glass fibers, it can be uncomfortable to touch; wear gloves and a mask while handling it.

Cellulose: Grayish in color, cellulose is a loose-fill insulation that can be blown in between attic joists. It’s chemically treated to be resistant to moisture, fire, insects and nesting rodents. Over time, it can settle, reducing its insulation value and requiring an additional layer to bring it back to the recommended R-value for your home.

Mineral wool: Like fiberglass, this comes in batts, rolls or loose-fill forms. It’s made from natural

and recycled materials and often appears greenish-brown in color.

Spray-in foam: More expensive than other types of insulation, spray-in foam is becoming a more common choice because it provides more insulation and better air sealing. Sprayed on the interior of your roof, it wraps the attic into your home’s envelope. “It’s more expensive than blowing in another 6 inches of fiberglass or cellulose, but it’s certainly worth getting prices,” says Touchstone Energy’s Alan Shedd. “For new construction or an addition, it’s a no-brainer.”

When you climb up to look at how much insulation you’ve got in the attic, be sure to protect yourself. Wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask if you’ll be handling any insulation. Bring a flashlight, so you can check your insulation in every nook and cranny and also see where you’re stepping. Only walk where you’re sure of secure footing, so you don’t drop through the ceiling below.

What you see What it probably is Depth (inches) Total R-value

Loose fibers

Lightweightyellow,pinkorwhite Fiberglass =2.5xdepth

Densegrayornear-white;mayhaveblackspecks

Rockwool =2.8xdepth

Smallgrayflatpiecesorfibers(fromnewsprint)

Cellulose =3.7xdepth

Granules Lightweight(variouscolors)

Vermiculiteorperlite =2.7xdepth

Batts Lightweightyellow,pinkorwhite Fiberglass =3.2xdepth


TIPFISH AREDELISHSalmon,shrimp,tunaandsardinesarerichinproteinandomega-3fattyacids,whichhelpbloodflow.Becarefulofmercurylevels in tuna,though,especiallyforpregnantorbreastfeedingwomenandsmallchildren.

Healthy Wraps 8 ounces cream cheese, softened ½ teaspoon curry powder ½ cup mandarin oranges, drained and

chopped 3 12-inch flour tortillas, room temperature ½ pound sliced smoked turkey 3 cups fresh spinach 2 green onions, chopped

Mix together the cream cheese, curry powder and oranges. Spread on the tortillas. Layer the turkey, spinach and onions on the tortillas. Roll each tortilla and slice into 1-inch pieces.

Camilla Williamson ∙ AlbiaChariton Valley Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Favorite Sausage Stars 1 package wonton wrappers 1 pound Italian sausage, browned and drained 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper 1½ cups ranch dressing

Line a lightly greased muffin tin with wonton wrappers and bake at 400 degrees until lightly browned. Mix remaining ingredients together and fill partially baked wraps. Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Martha Statlander ∙ Thornton ∙ Franklin REC

Shrimp on Crackers 1 8-ounce carton sour cream 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 package Italian salad dressing mix 1 can small shrimp Assorted crackers

Mix sour cream, cream cheese and salad dressing mix together. Gently stir in shrimp. Chill until ready to serve on crackers.

Sharon Sager ∙ Seymour Chariton Valley Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened ½ cup butter, softened – no substitute 1/4 teaspoon vanilla 3/4 cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar 3/4 cup mini-chocolate chips 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans Graham crackers (optional) Apple slices (optional)

Mix cream cheese, butter and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add powdered and brown sugars, mixing just until combined. Stir in chocolate chips and mix well. Place on plastic wrap and shape into a ball. Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Just before serving, roll ball in chopped pecans. Serve with graham crackers or apple slices.

Beverly Judge ∙ Garwin ∙ Consumers Energy


TIP

Wanted: Recipes for Soups and StewsThe Reward: $25 for every one we publish!

It seems like spring just arrived, but we’re still looking for ideas to take the chill off. If we run your recipe in the magazine, we’ll send a $25 credit for your electric co-op to apply to your power bill. Recipes submitted also may be archived on our website at www.livingwithenergyiniowa.com.

The deadline is May 31, 2018. Please include your name, address, telephone number, co-op name and the recipe category on all submissions.

E-MAIL: [email protected](Attach your recipe as a Word document or PDF to your e-mail message.)

MAIL: RecipesLiving with Energy in Iowa magazine8525 Douglas Ave., Suite 48Des Moines, IA 50322-2992

TIP

TIP

DIY POULTRY SEASONINGMake1teaspoonpoultryseasoningbymixing3/4teaspoondriedsagewith1/4teaspoondriedthyme.

SAFE MEALS FOR PETSYouwouldn’teatoffthesame plate ordrinkoutofthesameglassdayafterdaywithoutwashingthembetweenmeals,right?Dogs,catsandotherpetshavebacterialmicrobesintheirmouths(peopledotoo!),andthesemicrobescanbetransferredtothepet’sfoodandwaterdishes.Iffoodisleftinthedish,thatcreatesagoodenvironmentforbacteriatogrowandcauseillness–notonlyinyourpet,butalsoinyoungchildrenwhomayplaywiththepetorhandlethefooddish.So,washyourpet’sfoodbowlbetweenmealseverydayandcleanthewaterbowleverydayortwo.

Jalapeño Poppers 1 can crescent roll dough 8 small jalapeño peppers 1 8-ounce container garden vegetable cream

cheese spread

Separate dough into 8 triangles. Cut each triangle lengthwise in half. Cut peppers in half, removing seeds and membranes. Spoon the cream cheese spread into each pepper half. Place a stuffed pepper half on the short end of a triangle and roll up. Place seam side down on baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 14-18 minutes until rolls are golden brown.

Rod Walter ∙ Alton ∙ North West REC

Spinach Balls 2 boxes frozen spinach – cooked, drained and

squeezed dry 3 cups herb-seasoned stuffing mix 6 eggs 2 onions, chopped 3/4 cup butter, melted ½-3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 3/4 tablespoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon dry thyme 1 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all ingredients together and form into small balls. Place on baking sheet and freeze. Bake (frozen), as needed, at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. You may keep spinach balls in freezer and bake as needed.

Marlene Ellrich ∙ George ∙ Lyon REC

Bacon Cheese Dip 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 16-ounce container sour cream 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix 1 3-ounce package real bacon bits 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Combine together all ingredients and pour into a 11/2-quart baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Serve with chips of your choice.

Lorraine Kolosik ∙ North English ∙ T.I.P. REC

Southern Ham Puffs 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough 1 4.5-ounce can deviled ham 2 tablespoons chili sauce 1/3 cup peanut butter 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles

Separate dough into triangles and cut each in half lengthwise. Combine remaining ingredients and mix well. Spread over the triangles of dough. Roll each up, starting at the wide end of the triangle. Chill. When ready to serve, bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.

Carol Collett ∙ Mt. PleasantAccess Energy Cooperative


Lineworker safety gear: Here’s a look at the evolution of line equipment

1875-1900 Electrification beginsIntheearlyyears,linemenlearn

basicprinciplesandhazardsinrealtime.Safetystandardsarenon-existent,andmostlineequipmentishandmade.

1901-1925 Safety beginningsSafetyrulesandformalized

trainingbecomeavailable,butthey’relimited.Duringthisperiod,linemende-energizelinestorestorepower,butasdemandgrows,live-lineworkbecomesmorecommon.

1926-1950 Safety training improvesTheelectricindustrydevelops

moreformalizedsafetyrulesandprocedurestoprotectlineworkers.Inthelate1930s,apprenticeprogramswithstricterstandardsalsobegin.

1 Early headgearIt’snotuncommonforlinementowearhatsmadeoffeltorleatherforprotection.

2 Bare hands Linemenrarelywearglovesforprotection,optinginsteadtoworkbare-handed.

3 Digging spoonWorkersdigholesbyhandwithdiggingbars,spoons,andshovels.

4 Climbing spikesHomemadeclimberslackpadsandhaveonlyupperandlowerstraps.

5 Homemade beltsLinemenfashionbeltstowraparoundwaistandpole–ortheyclimbfreestyle.

1 Homemade hot sticks Linemenmaketheirownhotsticksandslatherthemwithvarnishtokeepmoistureout.

2 Leather tool bagsLeatherbagsstoreandcarryclimbingandworktools.

3 Rubber gloves Saferrubberglovesareintroducedaround1915alongwithotherrubberizedequipment,suchaslinehosesandblankets.

4 StandardizationLinemenbeltsandsafetystrapsaremorestandardized,adjustable,andattachtoD-rings.

1 HatsThetransitiontohardhatscomeslaterinthisperiod.Untilthen,mostlinemenelecttowearsoft,Stetson-stylehats.

2 Shotgun sticksThefirstshotgunstickscomeintouseandallowlinementoperformmoretaskswithoutclimbing.

3 HydraulicsA-framediggertrucksevolveintohydraulicdiggerderricktruckswithauger,resultinginsafer,moreefficientwork.

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Lineworker safety gear: Here’s a look at the evolution of line equipment

1951-1970 New heights and faster communicationFiberglasssticksevolveto

“rubbergloving,”withmoreformalizedrulesandtraining.Theadventofthebuckettruck,utilityundergroundingandimprovedcommunicationsaremajorsteps.

1971-1990 New law of the landPresidentNixonsignsthe

OccupationalSafetyandHealthAdministration(OSHA)law.Undergroundlineinstallationgainswidespreaduse.Material-handlingbuckettrucksandhydraulicandmechanicalcompressiontoolsalsoimproveworkconditions.

1991-present Watching out for workersOSHAbeginsrequiringutilities

toprovidelineworkerclothingtoprotectfromarcflashesand“fallprotection”deviceslikebodyharnessesandfall-arrestlanyards.

1 Rubber glove protectorsLinemenweartwopairsofgloves–leatherontopofrubber–formoreprotection.

2 Bucket trucksInsulatedbucketsontruckswithfallprotectioncomeintouse.

3 Two-way radiosNewapplicationsofradiotechnologiesimprovecommunicationsduringemergenciesandstormrestoration.

1 Hard hatsHeadprotectionmadefromthermoplasticsgainswidespreaduse.

2 Rubber sleeve improvementsNewsleevesextendtotheshouldersforextraprotection.

3 Telescoping or extendo stickMadeoffiberglass,theextendostickletsworkersperformtaskslikeopeningandclosingswitchesorremovingtreelimbswhilestayingonorneartheground.

1 Insulated hard hats Linemennowwearhardhatsinsulatedwithaspecialpolyethylenethatprotectsagainstblowstothehead.

2 HarnessesLinemenaren’tclimbingasmuch,sobodyharnessesandlanyardsarevaluablebackupsupport.

3 TabletsMobiledeviceshelplineworkerstroubleshootproblemsusingSCADAandmeterdatainsteadofclimbingapoleorgoingupinabucket.

4 Battery-operated crimperLightweightmechanicalcrimpersmeannomoresqueezingconnectorsbyhand.

5 ClothingArc-ratedclothingiswrittenintoOSHA-requiredPersonalProtectiveEquipment.

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ThankstoAlanDrew,authorofThe American Lineman,andBudBranhamandRobertHarrisfromNRECAfortheirassistanceinthecompletionofthisarticle.


P R O D U C T R E C A L L S

These electric space heaters can overheat and burn you – or catch on fire

Formoredetailsontheseproductrecalls,gotoCPSC’sHomePageatwww.cpsc.govandentertheRecallnumberintheSearchBoxatthetop.

These recalls may interest you too

Envi Wall HeatersRECALL:18-730SOLD ONLINE AT: www.eheat.comandspecialtyretailersHAZARD:Overheating,smokeandburns

IncooperationwiththeU.S.ConsumerProductSafetyCommission(CPSC),VornadoAirLLChasrecalleditspersonalelectricspaceheaterssoldinsevencolors.Ifyouownone,youshouldstopusingitimmediatelyandseekarefundorreplacementfromthemanufacturer.Toreportaproblemwithanother

productyoubelieveisunsafe,gotowww.saferproducts.gov.Fordetailsonrecallsofaproductyouown,gotocpsc.gov,twitter.com/uscpsc,facebook.com/uscpscorinstagram.com/uscpsc.Youalsomaycalltheagency’sHotlineat800-638-2772from7a.m.to4:30p.m.CentralTime.Notethatit’sillegaltoresellorattempttoresellarecalledconsumerproduct.

Vornado VH101 Personal Vortex Electric Space HeatersRECALL:18-136UNITS: About350,000

IMPORTER:VornadoAirLLC, ofAndover,Kan.HAZARD:Theelectricspaceheatercanoverheatwheninuse,posingburnandfirehazards.INCIDENTS/INJURIES:Vornadohasreceived15reportsoftheheaterscatchingonfire.DESCRIPTION:ThisrecallinvolvesVornadoVH101PersonalVortexelectricspaceheaterssoldinthefollowingcolors:black,coralorange,grayedjade,cinnamon,fig,icewhiteandred.Theheatersmeasureabout7.2incheslongby7.8incheswideby7.10incheshigh,havetwoheatsettings(lowandhigh)andafanonly/no-heatsetting.“Vornado”witha“V”behinditisprintedonthefrontoftheunit.Themodel/type“VH101,”serialnumberandETLmarkareprintedonasilverratinglabelonthebottomoftheunit.SOLD AT: BedBath&Beyond,TheHomeDepot,Menards,Orchard

Supply,Targetandotherstoresnationwide–andonlineatAmazon.com,Target.com,Vornado.comandotherwebsitesfromAugust2009throughMarch2018forabout$30.MANUFACTURED IN:ChinaREMEDY:ImmediatelystopusingtherecalledheaterandcontactVornadoforinstructionsonhowtoreceiveafullrefundorafreereplacementunit,includingfreeshipping.CONSUMER CONTACT:CallVornadotoll-freeat855-215-5131from8a.m.to5p.m.CentralTime,MondaythroughFriday.Youalsomayvisitwww.vornado.comandclickoneitherRecallsinthelower-rightcornerofthehomepageorgotowww.vornado.com/recallsandclickontheVH101PersonalHeaterrecallbuttonformoreinformation.

InSinkErator SinkTop Switches for Garbage DisposalsRECALL:18-116SOLD AT:Homeimprovementstores,onlinewebsites,andplumbingstoresandcontractorsHAZARD: Fire

Radio Flyer Electric WagonsRECALL:18-122SOLD AT:Toys“R”Us;onlineatwww.radioflyer.comandwww.toysrus.comHAZARD:Improperwiringcanunintentionallyactivatemotor


A B C s O F E L E C T R I C I T Y

Powering a home using the sun’s energy is not a new concept, but with recent technological advances and significantly lower costs, solar has become an attractive option for homeowners, businesses and utilities.

This promising source of renewable energy has also become increasingly accessible. Many electric cooperatives are offering community solar programs as an alternative to purchasing a rooftop solar array. This helps keep costs down and puts the burden of maintaining and operating the system on the co-op. The question that remains for many is: How do solar panels actually generate electricity?

Solar panels convert sunlight to usable electricity

The solar panels you see on street signs or rooftops consist of small, connected photovoltaic (PV) cells – “photo” meaning light and “voltaic” meaning the production of electricity. These cells consist of two layers of a semi-conducting material, typically silicon, which are infused with additional elements giving the top layer a negative charge and the bottom layer a positive charge. These two silicon layers are also sandwiched between several other coatings, including a glass casing, to optimize the PV cell’s energy production and provide protection from weather and flying debris.

Follow the journey of solar energy

The sun emits massive amounts of solar energy each day in the form of photons, which are small particles of light. When these photons “collide” hard enough with PV cells, electrons are knocked loose from atoms in the top silicon layer of the cells, leaving gaps to be filled by electrons from the bottom layer. Because of the electric field created by the two silicon layers, the loose electrons circulate through the cells in a single direction – out toward the metal sides of the solar

How do solar panels work?BY KALEY LOCKWOOD

panel – creating electricity with a direct current (DC).

The newly-generated electricity flows out of the panels, through conductive wire and into a power inverter system that converts the power from DC power to the alternating current (AC) power used in homes and businesses.

The alternating current flows from the inverter to the breaker box and is distributed through circuits as needed. Solar energy that goes unused will flow through your electric meter and back onto the electric grid.

Cooperative solar is boomingElectric cooperatives are leading

the electric utility industry in the development of “community” solar. This shared solar model allows co-ops to develop an array for member-owners who can either purchase the power or lease panels. A community solar program makes solar more

An electric field is createdwhen sunlight hits thesolar panels.

The conductive wire carries the DCu r(direct current) electricity to the r tinverter, where it is converted to ACw nv(alternating current) electricity, whichn eis used in homes and businesses.u

The AC electricity travels from the inverterThe ACTto the electric panel (or breaker box), whichdelivers electricity throughout the home.

Any unusedA y electricity l ttravelsr ethrough h ouyour electricy rmeter andm eback to the b kelectric grid.l t

Electricity istgenerated andeflows into awconductive wire.d

(Back to grid)

(Sunlight)

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affordable and equitable for co-op members who are unable to install rooftop solar because of tree shading, renting rather than owning or a number of other factors.

Rooftop solar may be an option for you

If the costs make sense and you have a suitable roof, a rooftop solar array can be a great way to reduce your monthly energy bill and help the environment. However, you must be aware of the costs and responsibilities related to a solar installation. For example, you must talk with your local electric cooperative before installing solar PV on your home – and find out what the co-op’s policies are regarding member-owned generation.

KaleyLockwoodwritesoncooperativeissuesfortheNationalRuralElectricCooperativeAssociation.


H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T

Play it cool with our energy-saving ideasBY PAT KEEGAN AND BRAD THIESSEN

There are several ways to make your home more comfortable this summer. Some of the solutions are low-cost, while others require a bigger investment. In the end, you can be more comfortable and have lower energy bills this summer.

The first step is to reduce your home’s solar gain – the heat energy it collects from the sun. Since most solar gain originates through your home’s windows, awnings can be an effective solution – reducing solar heat gain by as much as 65 percent on south-facing windows and 77 percent on west-facing windows. You also can try less expensive solutions on the inside of your windows, such as reflective films or solar screens. Heavy window coverings also work and have the added benefit of reducing heat loss during winter.

Attics can become extremely hot and radiate heat through the ceiling into your living space. Abundant venting through the roof, gable or eaves is one solution, but you also need adequate attic insulation.

Another important step is to seal air leaks around windows, doors, plumbing and wiring penetrations to keep warm air out and cool air in. In fact, you should seal air leaks before adding insulation – or you could render the added insulation ineffective.

You can also generate excess heat inside your home. Here’s a quick list of simple steps you can take:

Make it a habit to turn off lights and TVs in rooms that aren’t in use.

Incandescent light bulbs generate a lot of heat. Replace them with LEDs.

Unplug devices you aren’t using, such as chargers, computers, monitors and consumer electronics. Many of these phantom power users stay on constantly, awaiting your

command to use them, which generates heat.

Maintain appliances at peak efficiency. For example, clean your refrigerator coils and the filter in the exhaust fan. Set your refrigerator to 38 degrees (zero in the freezer).

Lower your water heater temperature to no higher than 120 degrees. Also consider insulating your water pipes.

Minimize use of your oven, and don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until they’re full.

Thiscolumnwasco-writtenbyPatKeeganandBradThiessenofCollaborativeEfficiency.

Converted attics tend to overheat in the summer because of low insulation levels and poor ventilation between the living space and the roof. A skylight can provide welcome daylight and ventilation – but also can add unwanted solar heat gain. A reflective film on the glass or specially designed window covering are potential solutions.

I N T H E N E W S

Two students awarded trips on 2018 Youth Tour

Congratulations to Hollie Nelson, who has been named the winner of the Living with Energy in Iowa 2018 Youth Tour Contest. Her prize for submitting the winning essay is an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., on June 8-14, where she’ll attend the national Youth Tour with 34 other Iowa students and about 1,800 students from across the country.

Hollie is a senior at Fairfield High School, where she’s involved in FFA, yearbook, student council, National Honor Society and the Elementary Mentoring Program. She’s the daughter of Shawn and Heather Nelson, and her family is a member of Access Energy Cooperative. Upon completion of high school, Hollie plans to attend a community college and study agriculture business.

An honor student at Central Lyon High School, Halie Heitritter was the lucky “at-large” winner of a Youth Tour trip from the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives (IAEC). Each co-op can nominate one student – usually the child or grandchild of an employee, but sometimes a student from the community – and IAEC randomly selects the winner. The daughter of Bret and Deb Heitritter (her mother is the billing clerk/cashier at Lyon REC), Halie is involved in cheerleading and active in her church.

You can go along!Well,almost.Butyou’llbeabletoseewhatIowa’sYouthTourparticipantsarepostingduringtheirJune 8-14 triponthesesocialmediaaccounts: Facebook:IowaYouthTour Twitter:@IowaYouthTour Pinterest:IowaYouthTour Instagram:iowayouthtour


At the risk of sounding like one of those old curmudgeons who’s constantly complaining about “those young whippersnappers,” it’s occurred to me lately that there’s a plethora of experiences that today’s kids will never have – events that shaped my life subtly and sometimes dramatically.

Here’s what kids today are missing: One telephone in the house …

with a cord. Ours was olive green, mounted in the kitchen next to the door to the front porch. The cord could stretch 10 feet and had a permanent scar about 2 feet from one end where the door bit into it as we hid on the porch for some privacy, squeezing the door shut on it. We knew that the door could open at any moment with a parent or sibling hissing, “Get off the phone. I need it.” That just added to the overall urgency of every call.

Waiting two hours after eating to swim. Everyone knew that swimming too soon after lunch would cause cramps, and then you’d drown. So, our Pella town pool opened at 2 p.m. We then went and crammed ourselves with junk food from the concession stand which, miraculously, didn’t seem to conform to the 2-hour rule.

A savings account that was recorded in a bank book. Oh, the pleasure of having that little book that detailed your deposits and withdrawals. Mine was tan, and every couple of months my dad would look at it to be sure I was saving some money and not withdrawing too much. Seeing those columns in ink was way more exciting than checking your account balance online.

O U T B A C K

Watching years of home movies where the kids were all blinded by a spotlight. Home movies required one person holding up a light that would singe your retinas and consequently made everyone in the picture squint. And we can’t forget when the movie needed to be “turned,” and you’d have 10 or 15 seconds of nothingness on the screen.

Tornado drills. How did we believe that sitting under our desks with a hardcover book tented over our heads would save us from the wrath of a tornado? Good thing most of us never found out the truth.

Fuzzy knee socks that never stayed up. Self-explanatory.

Fonts of information called encyclopedias. Okay, I admit I’m a knowledge nerd, but I loved pulling down a hefty

tome of facts and just reading them – even when I didn’t need to. Who knew that Angola has some of the richest agricultural land in Africa (or at least it did in 1972)? Who can’t be blown away by discovering that just as fingerprints are original, so are tongue prints? In case you’re suspicious that I still read my grocery store-purchased set of encyclopedias occasionally, I plead the fifth.

These things may have helped build my character or contributed to my 1970s Iowa farm girl upbringing in some way. Or maybe not. But I still don’t like swimming after a big meal … just in case.

ValerieVanKootengrewuponanIowafarmandloveswritingabouteverydaythingsthataffectallofus.Sheandherhusbandhavethreesonsandtwograndsons.

Kids today are missing out ... maybeBY VALERIE VAN KOOTEN

Life is always easier with a little help. From farms to front yards, from cattle ranches to

cul-de-sacs, Touchstone Energy Cooperatives energize local communities with the power and information they need to build a better energy

future for their members.

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives. Your source of power. And information.

Win a kit to automate your lights for convenience and ... · 6 8 10 Energy-saving tip of the month Effective attic ventilation helps keep attic temperatures below 110 degrees during

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