News & Information About Your Consumer-Owned Utility.

July 2000

Cool off safely this summer with these "Hot Tips"

Trying to beat the heat this summer? If your plans include cooling off with a portable electric fan or window air conditioner, we recommend that you take a few minutes to conduct a safety check before using these appliances.

      Your electric fan should have a guard or enclosures which are securely fastened. Grill openings should be small enough so that fingers, especially children’s small fingers, cannot accidentally touch the moving fan blade.

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s safety and operating instructions before using the product. Keep the instructions handy in case you have questions about the maintenance of your fan.

• Check for frayed cords or broken plugs. If you spot these hazards, don’t use the fan. Touching even a single exposed strand of wire can give you an electric shock or burn if the fan is plugged in.

• Place the fan on a level, stable surface.

• Position the fan and cord so that the fan won’t be bumped into or knocked over by people or pets walking through the room.

      When using a window air conditioner, check for any cracks or deterioration in the power cord insulation. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correct installation.

• Air conditioners operate at either 110 or 220 volts – never tamper with the plug or wiring to try to get the unit to operate from outlets that do not match the plug’s configuration. If new wiring or a different outlet is needed, have it installed by a qualified electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

• Like other electrical products, electric fans and room air conditioners have one function – to provide or circulate cool air. Never use them to dry clothing or other materials.

      Limit your use of extension cords. These devices are intended for occasional use only. If you must use an extension cord, make sure it’s designed to meet the product’s electrical current needs. The extension cord you choose should be properly rated to safely handle the current drawn by the product.

      By following these suggestions, Salem Electric hopes you will have a cooler and safer summer.
      If you’re considering installing a heat pump in your home, contact our Member Services Department. You may be eligible for a rebate ($500 or $750) or a 5% interest loan.

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Radon Gas Monitoring     

Radon: a radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium, found in most soils and capable of collecting inside homes. The second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. Interacts with tobacco smoke to produce a much greater risk.

       Radon is no stranger to the Salem area. While most homes will probably test below the "action level" (of four picocuries of radon per liter of air) – about 25% of homes in Salem are above this level, and action should be taken. The first step is always testing, since each home will have a unique reading even if the radon in the surrounding soil is the same. Home testing is easy and is recommended by the Health Department and the Environmental Protection Agency.
       Radon is especially dangerous in homes where a smoker is present. The risk for smoking households is increased ten fold, or more, over homes that are smoke free. Because of this extreme risk, Salem Electric is working with the Oregon Research Institute to offer free test kits to smoking households, and reduced price kits to all households.
      Information on how to order will be included in your August and September newsletters. Smoking households need only fill out the request card and return the card with your payment to receive the free test kit. Non-smoking households (usually at much less risk) will be eligible for a $7 low-cost test kit. 

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