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Sunrise in Columbia City
In This Issue
 
Preparing for Power Outages

2010 PUD Calendar Contest

My Fair Lady Nominations

PUD Scholarships Available

Energy-Saving Tips

No Power?

Always Current Auto Pay Program


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Issue: # 50 February 2009
PREPARING FOR POWER OUTAGES
Photo of lineman removing fallen trees from a power lineAlthough we work to maintain a safe, reliable electric system, we can't prevent every outage.

Even short power outages can be an unpleasant experience if you're not prepared for them.  Being prepared and learning what to do when the lights go out can help keep your family safe and comfortable while we restore power. 

Prepare for Outages
ENTER THE 2010 CALENDAR PHOTO CONTEST
Scappoose Bay. Photo by Tamra Parker
Photo by Tamra Parker
 
The photo contest for the PUD's 2010 calendar is now open.  To enter send us your best scenic photos, taken in Columbia County, by September 15th.

See contest details and entry forms.
NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE FAIR LADY!
 
The My Fair Lady pageant is held during the Columbia County Fair each year to recognize senior women for their outstanding service in our community.  The pageant is currently seeking nominees for the 2009 My Fair Lady Court.
2008 My Fair Lady Queen Maureen Sloan
To nominate someone, contact Nancy Harwood at the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program at (503) 397-5655 or rsvp@opusnet.com.

Nominees must be at least 55 years old but do not need to be a member of RSVP or their local senior center.  Nominations are due March 31.



2008 My Fair Lady Queen Maureen Sloan

PUD SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
Utility Industry, Community Service Scholarships Offered  

Photo of a graduation cap and textbooksWe offer two types of scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools:
  • Three $1,000 scholarships to recognize students for their outstanding community service.
  • Three $1,000 scholarships for students who intend to pursue a career in the utility industry. These scholarships are renewable for a second year.
Get scholarship details and application forms.
ENERGY SAVING TIPS
  • Clean or replace furnace filters monthly.
  • Turn your thermostat down a few degrees. Set it even lower when you are away or asleep.
  • Install a programmable thermostat.
  • Caulk or weather strip around exterior windows and doors.
  • Set your water heater at 120 degrees. (140 degrees if your dishwasher has no heating unit.)
  • Use your dishwasher, and run full loads.  Use the 'energy-saver' or air dry mode.Ask about ENERGY STAR
  • Turn off the lights in  unoccupied rooms.
  • Replace burned out light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, which use much less electricity.
  • When buying new appliances, windows, or heating and cooling systems, choose products with the ENERGY STAR label.
NO POWER?

Photo of meter with power.Check your electric meter.  If there are numbers in the display, then there is power to your home. Check your breaker box or fuse panel for tripped breakers or blown fuses.


If there are no numbers the display, your power is out. Call our Outage Hotline to report your outage: (503) 397-1844

Turn off all electric heaters, water heaters and
cooking equipment at the breaker or fuse panel.
When power is restored, you can turn these back
on one at a time, in 15-minute intervals.

Unplug sensitive electronic equipment such as
computers, TVs & stereos to prevent damage from
voltage surges or spikes when power is restored.

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