When you flip a switch, you expect the light to turn on; however, it does more than just light a room. It powers the dreams of a teenager studying for a test, the community gathering to support one another, and the critical processes that keep the local economy running. This is the heart of public power and the energy that continues to fuel Nebraska.

Yet, this seamless access to electricity was once a distant reality for many Nebraskans. During the early 20th century, many rural areas of Nebraska lacked access to electricity from private utilities, prompting the state to establish a public power system to serve all communities. In the 1930s, the Nebraska legislature passed legislation allowing the creation of public power districts, such as SCPPD, to bring electric service to rural areas not served by private utilities. Public power districts deliver more than electricity; they add significant value to the quality of life within the communities they serve. Now, Nebraska is the only state in the country with a fully public power system.

This Public Power Month, we celebrate the importance of public power and the value of keeping it local. From the lights in our homes to the critical infrastructure that drives our local economy, public power is a steady, reliable source for our communities. Thank you for trusting us to power what matters most to you.

There is a growing concern around the timing of our US mail. Customers have expressed frustration when they do not get their bills in the mail or when their payments arrive late. While we share your frustration, there is very little we can do to control this issue. Therefore, we are exploring more ways to communicate electronically. SCPPD encourages customers to consider a paperless option! Simply log into your SmartHub account and turn on paperless billing. You will receive notifications of your bill availability as well as options to pay your bill electronically, and more!

As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist.

Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death.

Before you climb that tree stand, look up and out

Never install a tree stand near a power line or on a utility pole. Electricity can arc — jump through the air — up to 10 feet from high-voltage lines. This means you don’t even have to touch a wire to be at risk of electrocution.

Never shoot near or toward power lines, utility poles, transformers or substations. Stray bullets or pellets could damage equipment, possibly interrupting electric service. Even more concerning, they could drop a power line to the ground, causing a hazardous scenario: those who get within 50 feet of a downed line could be shocked or electrocuted.

Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid costly or dangerous incidents:

• Scout the area. Before hunting, take time to scout your area during daylight. Look for power lines, poles and electrical equipment. Note their locations to avoid them later.
• Power safely. If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin or RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation.
• Avoid aiming toward power lines or equipment. Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations or transformers. A stray bullet could knock down a line, interrupt power or create a deadly hazard.
• Keep your distance. Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands.
• Never climb a utility pole. Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines, and climbing them can be deadly.
• Don’t use utility poles for support. Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by power poles or electrical equipment.

Drones are unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that are increasingly being used recreationally and professionally. As a result, there is an increasing need to ensure these craft are flown safely and within regulations.

Open areas are great places to fly drones, but it’s important to keep drones away from overhead power lines. Do not fly them anywhere near power lines or electrical substations. If a drone flies into a power line, it could cause power outages. It could also result in downed lines, which pose a dangerous electrical safety hazard. The falling debris could also endanger public safety.

Touching a downed line or anything it has fallen on, like a fence or a tree limb, could get you injured or even killed. Stay away and instruct others to do the same. If you come across downed power lines, call 911 to notify emergency personnel and the utility immediately.

Follow federal guidelines for registering your drone or getting business approval, and be aware of and abide by community and state-specific legislation.

Keep these FAA safety guidelines in mind:

• Never fly your drone recklessly. You could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft.
• Before flying the drone, check it for damage. Have a damaged drone repaired before use.
• Never fly drones higher than 400 feet.
• Do not fly the drone beyond your line of sight.
• Do not fly near airports, manned aircraft, stadiums, or people.
• Do not fly for commercial purposes, unless specifically authorized by the FAA.
• Do not fly in bad weather conditions, such as low visibility or high winds.