What lurks under the dirt?: Call before you dig
Instead of hitting pay dirt, you will pay if you hit an underground line
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — August 11 is National Safe Digging Day, also known as 811 Day. The observance reminds anyone considering an outdoor project that breaks ground to get underground utilities...
Midwestern farmers, ranchers can find tools to thrive with new resource center
URBANA, Ill. – Farm life can be stressful. Most pressures, such as weather, illness, injuries, loans, and regulations, are constant and uncontrollable. Now, Midwestern farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers have direct access to a new tool to help manage stress, anxiety, depression, or...
Keep yourself, loved ones safe from invisible electrical dangers
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Every year, 1,000 people die, and 30,000 people are injured in electrical accidents. While electricity typically transmits without incident, there are times when the electrical path becomes disrupted. When this happens, the current can flow through anything or anyone in its...
Follow cottage food laws when selling at farmers markets
URBANA, Ill – Have you considered selling your homemade foods at a farmers market? Basic guidelines outline what growers and vendors must observe in preparation for farmers market sales.
Cottage food operations can be a simple way to generate income from home. The...
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards.
Safety and health of workers, including making time for...
Yes, it’s safe to charge your electric vehicle in the rain
URBANA, Ill. – While it’s normally a bad idea to stand on a wet surface and plug something in, electric vehicles are built to do just that.
With electric vehicles growing in popularity, people are curious about charging in inclement weather, says Thomas Bruhl, a member of the...
Don't forget safety as you head to parks and camps
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Camping remains one of the best ways to get away from daily routines while practicing social distancing. Portable generators offer some comforts of home, whether your camping adventure includes tents or recreational vehicles. ...