Source: Jenna Smith
Extension Educator, Nutritin & Wellness
University of Illinois Extension
Serving Livingston, McLean and Woodford Counties
309-663-8306 • jesmith6@illinois.edu

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – To ensure safety in the home canning process, pressure canner dial gauges should be tested annually. This canning season, University of Illinois Extension will provide free gauge testing at your local Extension office to ensure you are on track to can safely this summer.

University of Illinois Extension recommends annual testing because over time, a dial gauge’s calibration can become inaccurate. If the pressure is lower than recommended, the internal temperature of the food will not be high enough to kill harmful bacteria.

At your convenience, you may drop off your lid or lids at your local Extension office. Once the lids are checked, you will be contacted again for pickup.

Offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Offices can be found at:
•    Livingston County Extension Office (1412 S. Locust Street, Pontiac - closed from 12 – 1 p.m.). Contact us for questions at (815) 842-1776.
•    McLean County Extension Office (1615 Commerce Parkway, Bloomington - closed from 11:30 – 12:30 p.m.). Contact us for questions at (309) 663-8306.
•    Woodford County Extension Office (109 East Eureka Avenue, Eureka - closed from 12 – 1 p.m.). Contact us for questions at (309) 467-3789.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please call 309-663-8306.