It is a great time to recognize the importance of safety and education at Clay Electric Co-operative. We are proud to announce that Clay Electric has been recognized for outstanding workplace safety, earning the 2024 awards for Best Loss Time Rate and Best Incident Rate at the AIEC Safety & Energy Conference! These awards reflect our dedication to maintaining a safe work environment and upholding the highest industry safety standards. At Clay Electric, safety isn’t just a priority, it’s a way of life.

We would also like to extend our congratulations to Kevin Logan, Neil Gould and Bob Pierson for earning their Director Gold Certifications. This program ensures that your elected board members remain informed on the ever-evolving electric industry, allowing them to make well-informed decisions that benefit our membership. Continuous education is essential to the cooperative model, and we are grateful for their commitment to leading Clay Electric forward.

With spring in full swing, many members are starting outdoor projects, from landscaping to home improvements. If you’re planning to dig, don’t be an April fool — call 811 before you dig! Contacting JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) at least two business days before breaking ground ensures that underground utilities are properly marked, preventing potential injuries, service disruptions and costly repairs. Whether you’re planting trees, installing a fence, or digging for any reason, calling 811 is a free and easy way to stay safe.

In addition to safe digging practices, we encourage members to keep electrical safety in mind as they tackle spring projects. If you’re using power tools outdoors, be sure to use extension cords rated for outdoor use. Always keep ladders and long-handled tools well away from overhead power lines. And, if your project requires electrical service upgrades or installations, reach out to us as early as possible.

Lastly, be sure to keep an eye out for your member number in the center section of this magazine. There are three member numbers hidden within the pages of Clay Electric News. If you spot your number and give us a call, you will win a $5 discount on your next bill!