Weiser Area Rural Fire District

09/20/2023

09/15/2023

03/24/2023

Single vehicle Rollover happened on Cove Road outside of Weiser at approximately 12:30 pm Friday (3/24/23).
The driver swerved to miss an animal and over corrected.
The driver had minor injuries.
On scene were Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy investigating the accident, Weiser Fire District assisting in traffic control and safety and Washington County Ambulance

12/08/2022

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.

FACTS
• Almost one third of home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems.
• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes more than one in every five of the fires.

PICKING THE TREE
• Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

PLACING THE TREE
• Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.
• Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
• Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

LIGHTING THE TREE
• Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.
• Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
• Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

AFTER CHRISTMAS
Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

12/02/2022

Winter storms can happen almost anywhere and Idaho is no stranger to them. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before, during and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire.

• Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
• Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report any downed wires to authorities.
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed.

IMPROTANT REMINDER:

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February. As you stay cozy and warm this winter season, be fire smart!

FACT:
Nearly half of all space heater fires involve electric space heaters.

12/01/2022

By Maria Willacy Idaho Power Communications Specialist With the busy holiday season full of gift shopping and gatherings, don’t forget about safety — hundreds of fires occur each year from holiday decorations alone. Use this checklist to keep you and your family safe: Lighting safety: Use LED li...

11/19/2022