Power Pack
Safe ways to recycle mercury and batteries A number of common consumer products contain mercury, a toxic substance that can be harmful to human health and the environment. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) encourages users of mercury-containing products to become familiar with and follow requirements of local recycling laws. Thermostats Many existing wall thermostats contain mercury switches that provide for efficient control of temperature around a desired set point. The switches are securely housed, and the likelihood of consumer exposure to mercury remains extremely low. When taken out of service, however, mercury thermostats should be managed and disposed of properly. The Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC), a not-for-profit organization, facilitates the collection of all brands of used, wallmounted mercury-switch thermostats by heating, cooling and air conditioning (HVAC) wholesalers. Local electrical distributors or contractors may be a participant in TRC and can help you to recycle your mercury thermostat. Rechargeable batteries Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote-controlled toys. The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) provides a recycling service for your used portable, rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. The RBRC recycles the following battery chemistries: nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium-ion (Li-ion) and small sealed lead (Pb). Visit www.RBRC.org to find local participating retailers and other sites that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling. Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International
State park spotlight: Desoto State Park Desoto State Park encompasses more than 3,500 acres along the Little River, and is nestled on Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama. The park has dining and meeting facilities, along with a large outdoor deck available for gatherings. It features 25 motel rooms, mountain chalets and rustic cabins. Mountain chalets are equipped with full kitchens and private decks. The park is also home to the Mountain Inn Restaurant, which overlooks the Little River. It is open daily. The state park is located eight miles northeast of Fort Payne, off of Interstate 59 in the northeastern tip of the state. For questions, call 256-845-5380 or email Desoto. StateParkLodge@dcnr.alabama.gov.
Utility bill pay scam promises help from government Alabama residents should be advised that people are trying to scam homeowners by posing as utility company workers and government officials who offer to pay their bills. There have been reports of customers victimized in the north and south of the state by scammers who offer to pay their utility bills through a new federal program. An unidentified person has been calling homeowners and telling them they qualify for government assistance to pay their bills. They acquire banking information and Social Security numbers while on the phone. 10 JULY 2012
The Better Business Bureau offers the following tips to avoid falling for this scam: • Never provide your social security number, credit card number or banking information to anyone requesting it over the phone or at your home unless you initiated the contact and feel confident with whom you are speaking. • If you receive a call claiming to be your utility company and feel pressured for immediate payment or personal information, hang up the phone and call the customer service number on your utility bill.
• Never allow anyone into your home to check electrical wiring, natural gas pipes or appliances unless you have scheduled an appointment or have reported a utility problem. Also, ask utility employees for proper identification. • Always think safety first. Do not give in to high pressure tactics over the phone for information or in person to get into your home. The BBB advises homeowners who are contacted to participate in the scam to contact their local law enforcement office.
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