As February arrives, we find ourselves in the heart of winter, a time when warmth and comfort are most cherished. It is also the perfect opportunity, with Valentine’s Day approaching, to reflect on the relationships we have built with you, our valued members.

Caring for our membership is not just a seasonal sentiment; it is the foundation of everything we do. Guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles, we strive to serve you with integrity, commitment and care. These principles remind us that you are more than customers; you are member owners of this cooperative. Our focus is on providing you with reliable, affordable and sustainable energy every day.

As February brings some of the coldest days of the year, staying warm becomes a priority, and so does staying safe. Here are a few tips to help you and your family:

• Stay warm efficiently: Set your thermostat to 68 degrees when you are home and lower it when you are away. Use ceiling fans on their lowest setting to circulate warm air downward. Fans should turn clockwise when viewed from below in the winter.
• Seal and insulate: Check doors, windows and attics for drafts, and seal any gaps. Proper insulation can significantly reduce energy loss. 
• Layer up: Wearing warm clothing and using blankets allows you to stay comfortable even at lower thermostat settings.
• Use space heaters wisely: Space heaters can provide targeted warmth but are deceptively high users of electricity, typically consuming 1,500 watts. For comparison, a refrigerator uses 150 to 500 watts. That little space heater may use as much power as 10 refrigerators! Always place space heaters on a level surface, keep them away from flammable materials, and turn them off when unattended.
• Be prepared for outages: Keep flashlights, batteries and a backup plan ready for unexpected power outages. Avoid using candles for safety reasons.

Additionally, if you or someone in your household relies on electric medical devices like oxygen machines or breathing equipment, we encourage you to take extra precautions during this time of year. Ensure backup batteries are fully charged, have a generator or alternative power source available if possible, and create a plan for safe shelter in case of extended outages. Please notify the cooperative about your medical needs so we can prioritize storm restorations whenever possible.

Our linemen and staff work tirelessly through snow, ice and frigid temperatures to ensure your power remains on, but extreme conditions can sometimes lead to interruptions. When they do, please know that restoring your service is always our highest priority.

This February, as we celebrate the love and warmth of the season, we want you to know how much we appreciate the trust you place in us. Thank you for being part of the Clay Electric Co-operative family.

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!