Seasonal Articles

Summer

Summer Energy Savings
Did you know the average homeowner spends about $1,900 a year on energy costs? Record-breaking temperatures and humidity levels affect many of us and most would rather spend our hard-earned money on our favorite summer activities than our energy bills. Read more about summer energy savings.

Heat Stress
Summertime in the Midwest leads to wonderful, warm and sunny days; we all love to forget the chill of winter and get to the great outdoors. However, extreme heat could pose hazards to your safety and health. Read an overview of heat stress disorders, how to recognize and prevent them.

Fall

Ladder Safety
Thousands of injuries occur each year from the improper use of one of the most common tools found on every construction project and in every warehouse, shop or garage – the ladder. Here are some helpful tips for limiting your risk of injury when you use a ladder. Continue reading about ladder safety.

Preparing for the Change of Seasons
Most people in the Midwest thoroughly enjoy autumn with its warm, sunny days and cool evenings. However, we all know that winter is just around the corner. Preparing ourselves, our homes or facilities and our vehicles in advance of the cold weather will help us survive the inevitable and maybe help us enjoy winter more. Learn more about winterizing your home.

Winter

Winter Travel
Winter is a beautiful time of the year but can turn dangerous if the proper precautions are not taken. By practicing safe winter driving habits such as planning ahead, watching your speed, staying alert and wearing seat belts you increase your chances of reaching the destination safely. Winter travel tips.

Installing Holiday Lights
One of the most important things to do before starting your holiday lights set up is to identify a safe and suitable electrical source. Verify the electrical circuit you plan to use will not be overloaded and the exterior receptacles are ground fault protected (GFI). The use of overloaded circuits and old, frayed light sets are the cause of many house fires and personal injuries during the holidays. Installing holiday lights safely.

Residential Generators
In the United States, over 3.5 million residents lose power each week according to a study from the Electric Power Research Institute. Most items in your home are powered by electricity; think of how inconvenient a power outage would be if it were to last hours or even days. Read more on residential generators.

Spring

Electricity + Water = Danger
After what seemed like a very long winter to many of us, spring is finally coming to the upper Midwest. We now change our focus from snow, ice and cold temperatures to our beautiful spring weather which may also bring the threat of severe weather. Read more about recovering from flooding.