Archive for January, 2010

Toyota Accelerator Pedal Recall

Which models are affected by the recall/stop sale?
Toyota’s accelerator pedal recall and suspension of sales is confined to the following Toyota Division vehicles:
  • 2009-2010 RAV4,
  • 2009-2010 Corolla,
  • 2009-2010 Matrix,
  • 2005-2010 Avalon,
  • Certain 2007-2010 Camry
  • 2010 Highlander except hybrid models,
  • 2007-2010 Tundra,
  • 2008-2010 Sequoia
No Lexus Division or Scion vehicles are affected by these actions. Also not affected are Toyota Prius, Tacoma, Sienna, Venza, Solara, Yaris, 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Highlander hybrids and select Camry models, including all Camry hybrids, which will remain for sale.
What is the condition that has prompted Toyota to take this action?
In rare instances, there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position.
What is the likelihood that my vehicle will experience this condition?
The condition is rare and does not occur suddenly. It can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.
Are you continuing to investigate other models?
Toyota is confident that all models that contain the potentially sticking pedals have been identified.
Why has Toyota stopped selling the affected vehicles?
Until Toyota has finalized an appropriate remedy to address the potential for sticking accelerator pedals, a sales suspension is necessary.

Keeping you safe, here is link for more information on the Toyota Accelerator Pedal Recall.

Life 101.9 Energy Saving Tip — The Fireplace

Scott Drzycimski

Scott Drzycimski Team Lead - Strategic Communications Interstate Power and Light Co., an Alliant Energy Company

Listen in as Brent and Julia talk with Scott Drzycimski about how make our fireplace as energy efficient as possible.

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For more information visit:

Alliant Energy’s Powerhouse TV information on Fireplaces

or

Alliant Energy’s Energy Efficiency Rewards/Rebates

Free Tenth Avenue North Download

From time to time we come across free songs for you….no strings attached.

This is a special acoustic version of “Beloved” from Tenth Avenue North.  It’s available for free exclusively at www.TenthAvenueNorth.com/exclusive for a limited time, so be sure to download your copy and tell your friends before time runs out.

Friend for Life

Today our Life 101.9 Friend for Life is Kelly from Sumner….who nominated her friend Andi from Waterloo!

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Congratulations to you both!  And of course we invite you to share about YOUR friend for life and you could win two $15.00 gift certificates to Panera Bread too!

During a Power Outage

Check your fuses or circuit breakers to rule out problems with electricity inside your home. If you’ve blown a fuse, replace it with a new one of the same amperage. If the breaker has tripped, reset it from “off” to “on.” If you’re unsure about fixing a fuse or circuit breaker, call an electrician.

Call your local energy provider to report an actual outage. Do not call 911 unless there is a real emergency.

For MidAmerican the number is 800-799-4443.

For Alliant Energy the number is 877-740-5050

Listen to radio reports. If the outage is widespread, use your radio to  monitor the outage restoration process.

Unplug computers, TVs, VCRs, and other sensitive appliances to avoid possible damage when electricity comes back on. When power resumes, reset clocks and check automatic alarms and timers. Plug in only essential items. Wait 10 minutes before connecting the rest to let the electrical system stabilize.

Turn off all but one of the lights that were on, so you will notice when electricity is restored.

Use a flashlight when it gets dark. Avoid candles because of the fire risk.

Turn off heat-producing appliances like electric irons and heaters to  prevent a fire in case no one is home when power is restored.

If you use a standby generator, make sure it has a  transfer switch. This switch will isolate your home circuits from power lines. A generator that does not have a transfer switch can back feed electricity into main power lines, causing a shock hazard for you and utility crews.

Be alert for carbon monoxide (CO) buildup from portable generators. Never run a portable generator inside or near a building.

Traffic lights and railroad crossings may not work. If you are in a car remind the driver to stop, look and listen for cross traffic.