As summer settles in across Eastern Idaho, so does the threat of wildfire. With open landscapes, dry brush, and strong summer winds, rural areas like Idaho Falls, Iona, Shelley, Rigby, and beyond are at higher risk when fire season ramps up.
At Electric Falls, we care about keeping your family safe—not just powered. Below are some practical, electrician-approved tips to help you prepare your home and reduce the risk of electrical-related fire hazards this season.
🌾 1. Clear the Area Around Your Electrical Panel & Meter
Vegetation grows fast in Eastern Idaho’s spring and early summer,especially around outbuildings and barns. Make sure weeds, grass, and shrubs are cleared at least 3 feet away from your:
This helps prevent fire from igniting near your power source and ensures safe access for firefighters or electricians in an emergency.
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đź’ˇ 2. Upgrade Old Wiring in Outbuildings
If your shed, barn, or shop has wiring that’s over 30 years old—or worse, DIY from a previous owner—it’s time to get it inspected. Faulty, outdated, or ungrounded wiring in rural structures is a major fire hazard, especially when combined with dust, hay, or rodents.
🔌 3. Don't Overload Extension Cords or Power Strips
Summer is the season for RV hookups, fans, freezers, and extra lighting.Avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords or overloading a single outlet with too many high-draw items. Instead:
⚡ 4. Install Whole-Home Surge Protection
Lightning strikes and downed power lines are common during summer storms.A power surge can fry appliances—or worse, spark a fire. A whole-home surge protector (installed at your main panel) is a smart investment, especially in areas with unreliable power or well pumps.
đź§Ż 5. Test Your Smoke Alarms & GFCIs
Every home should have working smoke detectors on every floor—and near bedrooms. Press the test button monthly, and replace batteries at least once ayear. Also, make sure GFCI outlets (the ones with the reset button) are working in your kitchen, bathroom, garage, and outdoors.
đźš’ Pro Tip: Have a Fire Emergency Plan
Make sure your family knows:
If you live in a particularly rural spot, consider adding emergency lighting or backup battery systems to keep essentials running if the power goes out.
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đź‘· Need a Safety Inspection Before Fire Season?
At Electric Falls, we serve rural homeowners all across Eastern Idaho. Whether you need an electrical inspection, a panel upgrade, or helprewiring your shop, we’re here to keep you safe—and up to code.
📞 Call us today or book online for a summer safety checkup before fire season heats up.
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208-419-3613
www.electricfalls.com
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Welcome to Electric Falls, where our commitment to excellence in electrical services has been illuminating the Southeast Idaho community for several years.