Summer gives way to fall this month. I’m proud of the work our crews have put in over this year’s storm season. Needed upgrades across our system have proven their value through several damaging storms this year. No amount of work will ever give us perfect reliability, but we’ve seen the efforts of our construction team and contractors over the last couple years cut down on outage times. Increasing the size of conductor on our three-phase backbone over the last couple years allowed us to feed members from other substations when transmission outages took out multiple subs. Being able to reroute our system to put our members back in power while the transmission grid is still being repaired is satisfying. Knowing our members have power is what lets us sleep well at night.

This month should see our area farmers starting to get into their fields again. As the harvest season begins, we encourage all our members to:

1. Slow down and stay alert. As farmers work diligently to bring in their harvest, tractors and other large equipment might be sharing the road with you. Slow down and stay alert, giving them the space they need to operate safely.
2. Stay patient. Harvest season can bring slower-moving vehicles onto the road. Remember, everyone is trying to get where they need to go. Show patience and understanding to ensure a safer journey for all. 
3. Pass with caution. If you encounter slower vehicles, pass with caution. Make sure you have a clear line of sight and plenty of room to overtake safely. Always use your turn signals and follow traffic rules.
4. Watch for farm entrances. Be extra vigilant around farm entrances and driveways. Farm vehicles may unexpectedly enter or exit the road. Stay attentive and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.
5. Be mindful of dusk and dawn. Dusk and dawn can be particularly challenging times for visibility. With the sun low on the horizon, visibility might be reduced. Make sure your headlights are on and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
6. Use seatbelts. No matter the season, wearing your seatbelt is crucial. Seatbelts save lives. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up before hitting the road.
7. Stay cautious in poor weather. Fall weather can be unpredictable. Rain, fog and frost can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. Slow down, increase your following distance and use your vehicle’s lights appropriately.
8. Avoid distractions. Keep your attention focused on the road. Avoid distractions like texting, eating or adjusting the radio. Your full attention is essential for your safety and the safety of others.

Don’t forget to be on the lookout for your member number in the center section of this magazine. There are three member numbers hidden in Clay Electric News. If you find your number and give us a call, you win $5 off your next bill!