Play it safe when using generators

Storm season is upon us, which means greater potential for power outages. If you are planning to use a portable generator in the event of an outage, REC reminds you to play it safe.

With proper use and maintenance, portable generators can provide great convenience during an outage. However, when generators are used incorrectly, they can be extremely hazardous. In a 2022 report, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 85 U.S. consumers die every year from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators.

Here are 10 do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when using portable generators:

1. DO: Install backup CO alarms.

2. DO: Keep children and pets away from portable generators at all times.

3. DO: Position generators at least 25 feet outside the home, away from doors, windows and vents which can allow CO to enter the home.

4. DO: Ensure your generator is properly grounded. Use a portable ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electric shock injuries.

5. DO: Use three-pronged extension cords rated to handle the load of the generator. Inspect extension cords for cuts, frays or other damage before use.

6. DON’T: Operate a generator inside your home or an enclosed (or partiallyenclosed) space. Generators produce high levels of CO, which can be deadly.

7. DON’T: Open windows or doors while the generator is running.

8. DON’T: Rely on generators as a full-time source of power. They should only be used temporarily or in emergency situations to power essential equipment or appliances.

9. DON’T: Overload generators. They should only be used to power essential equipment. Make sure your generator can handle the load of the items you plan to power.

10. DON’T: Connect generators directly into household wiring unless you have an appropriate transfer switch installed. If a generator is connected to a home’s wiring without a transfer switch, power can backfeed along power lines and electrocute utility lineworkers making repairs.

While generators provide convenience during power outages, they can quickly become hazardous – even deadly – if improperly operated. Before you operate a portable generator, be sure to thoroughly read the owner’s manual for important safety information and tips.

PETS & LIVESTOCK

FOR SALE: Top quality polled Hereford bulls from Whiskey Bent Ranch, yearlings to mature bulls, can deliver within 50 miles, starting at $1650. PH: 405-207-7590.

RECREATIONAL

FOR SALE: Rockwood Premier pop-up camper with slide-out, fully self-contained, sleeps six, lots of storage, heat and air, kitchen sink, microwave, refrigerator, hot water heater, toilet, shower, inside or outside three burner stove, new propane tank, new tires and new spare, ready to go, $4,200. PH: 405-207-0228.

FOR SALE: 8' x 10' storage shed, ready to be moved, located west of Rush Springs. PH: 985-247-5211.

FOR SALE: Gear Wrench Manufacturing Company reversible titan chain, 67 tongs, 2 to 12 in. pipe, pre-owned, $1,000. PH: 405-207-0228.

Co-op Connections

Use your Co-op Connections Card to save you money on lodging, photographs, oil changes and other items. You can also save on prescriptions, dental, vision, hearing, lab work and imaging and chiropractor services at participating locations. Your card is a discount card. If you have misplaced your card, contact REC for a replacement card and use it to save yourself some money.

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Washing windows and screens are a great way to practice energy efficiency during spring cleaning. Clean windows and screens make your home brighter by allowing more sunlight in, reducing the need for lamps and fixtures. Clean screens also allow more fresh air in the home when the windows are open to recycle indoor air. Natural light and clean air are energy savers, and they enhance overall health and productivity. Learn more at www.energy.gov.

FOR SALE: Adjustable Kingpin 5th-wheel camper bipod stabilizer, $80. PH: 405-207-0228.

FOR SALE: Innova inversion table, new, fully assembled, $100. PH: 405-207-0228.

Leadership Summit scholarship winners

REC awarded five scholarships at its Youth Leadership Summit. The winners pictured from left to right: Clara Wright from Alex was a $250 winner, Serenity Garrett from Wynnewood was a $250 winner, Adam Edelman from Purcell was a $500 winner, Sarah Christensen from Pauls Valley was a $250 winner and Nigel Reid from Maysville was a $250 winner.

Local Co-op Connection Card Deals

A-U-Store It, Purcell$5 off first month rent

Backroads Boutique, Lindsay5% off everything excluding special order and sale items

Best Western, Chickasha15% Off Regular Room Rate

Blue Moose Outdoor

Portable Rentals, Elmore City5% Off Septic Tank Pumping, Tent Rental and Special Event Toilet Rentals

Chickasha Diesel Services, Chickasha$50 off any big diesel oil change

Edwards Canvas, Pauls Valley - 5% Off

Jenny’s Pics Photography, Lindsay10% Off $50 or More Purchase of Pictures

Lindsay Tire and Lube, Lindsay$5 Off Any Full Service Oil Change

M & M Furniture, Chickasha10% Off Any Purchase

Mazzio’s Italian Eatery, Purcell10% Off Purchase

Photos by Ginger, Pauls Valley1 Free 8x10 Print With First Order of $25 Pharmacy Discounts -

Check out the discounts available using your Co-op Connections Card at participating pharmacies throughout our area. For a complete list of pharmacies, visit REC’s website to see if your pharmacy is offering discounts to Co-op Connections Card holders.