According to the National Weather Service, in 2024, there were “27 confirmed U.S. billion-dollar weather and climate disaster events. These events include: seventeen severe storm events (tornado outbreaks, high wind, hailstorms).” NECA contractor Kay-Bee Electric is offering a series of tips to ensure homeowners can be better prepare for spring/summer storms, noting that “a sudden power surge or outage can damage appliances, trip breakers and even pose a fire hazard.” They include:

·         Whole-Home Surge Protection – Lightning and power surges can fry your electronics in seconds. A professionally installed surge protector safeguards your home’s appliances, HVAC system, and devices.

·         Backup Generator Hookups – Stay powered through outages with a whole-home generator or backup power solutions. We ensure proper installation, so you're never left in the dark.

·         Check Your Electrical Panel & Breakers – Overloaded or outdated panels are at higher risk during storms. If you notice flickering lights or frequently tripped breakers, it may be time for an upgrade.

·         Outdoor & GFCI Outlet Safety – Moisture and electricity don’t mix! Weatherproofing outdoor outlets and ensuring GFCI protection in key areas can prevent electrical hazards during heavy rains.

Learn more about storm-proofing your home’s electrical system at Kay-Bee’s website

Accolades continue for an IBEW/NECA project that has previously been saluted in award programs.  The Missouri Botanical Garden’s Jack C. Taylor Visitor Center was selected to represent the category “Best Cultural/Worship” project by Engineering News Record (ENR). TD4 Electrical and Guarantee Electrical were part of the team led by Alberici Constructors that built the LEED Gold-certified, 91,700-sq-ft visitor center.  TD4 and Guarantee were previously honored for the project in the 2023 AGC Keystone Awards.  Learn more about this latest honor.

And we close out March with some Women’s History Month trivia.  Who was the first woman to become a member of IBEW?  It was Czech-born Mary Honzik and not surprisingly she joined IBEW Local 1, the birthplace of the union. She and her family came to America in the 1880s and settled in Missouri where Mary made her dreams become a reality with IBEW Local 1.  See the video of Mary’s life.