Jerry explores the implications of the "Smart Grid." Secrecy issues, political and legal consequences, time of day usage, opt-out fees . . . and offers basic strategies for refusal. If we already have a digital or Smart Meter installed, if we silently accept the smart meters and if we don't band together to oppose them, the media are less likely to report our concerns, and less awareness will be raised.   So . . .

• First Strategy: Refuse the installations.  And even when a smart utility meter has been installed against your wishes, it is not too late to oppose it, and to have it removed.

• Second Strategy: Refuse the opt-outs.  Never accept any shady, half-criminal opt-out offer from your power company.  [We have the right to retain our analog meters, period.  We are suggesting that no one enter into a new contract with their utility.  Then it will be a legal document that can be upheld by the utility. Better to keep the analogue meter if possible, and demand that you do so without penalty.]

• Third Strategy: If you already have a smart meter, collect evidence.

Evidence is what wins in a legal conflict. Many people are experiencing sudden and unusual health problems going on for weeks or months, only to realize they started on the day the smart meter was installed. If a digital meter is ever installed on your home or workplace, keep a diary of all the changes in the occupants' health from the day that meter is installed [or discovered]. Keep records of any problems the digital meters are causing you. Write down the time, the day, the name of the victim, and a description of the symptoms or problems:

 . . . headaches, nausea, insomnia, lack of concentration, heart palpitations, mood swings, depression, confusion, poor performance at work or school, sick days, lost jobs, family dysfunction and conflicts, disintegrating relationships.

These are all things that should be written down, and described with time and date. You'll find that you have a powerful legal device there. You can bring that as a sworn statement before your utility company or a court, and they will have no way to dispute or rebut that with first-hand knowledge. You have just created compelling and prevailing evidence in any legal contest. It's more important than you may know. Without that diary, you have little or no recourse against the costs to your health and your family that a digital utility meter may cause. Simply having that record gives you the legal power and advantage to leverage the future your way, and to defeat the violator, the power company, who thinks it doesn't have to listen and respond to your demand for safety, health and privacy.

See also: Smart Meters a Little Too Smart? Personal Surveillance

See our what you can do page:  www.napervillesmartmeterawareness.org Go to the "what you can do" and you'll find a list of suggestions that have just been updated.